Daily living supports help keep my mother at home. These services support and enhance the care I am already providing to help her maintain her independence. I have received assistance with home modifications, obtaining pureed foods, and some in-home personal care support. I used to try to do all of these things myself, but I have found some relief in my role since we have accepted help. The daily living supports that you need may be different than the ones that I need.
 

• Budget your energy, you don’t have to do it all yourself. Take advantage of the services that are available – even heroes have sidekicks.

• If you can’t find the supports you are looking for, ask your current providers and other caregivers for connections.

• Consider making a reference sheet for providers coming into the home about preferences of the care recipient or yourself (e.g., home temperature, where to put belongings, garbage day, etc.).

• Place emergency information in an easy to access place (e.g. fridge or back of front door). Include your care recipient’s name, 911 address, health card number, contact numbers, emergency protocols, etc.) – it will be easily found and shared with first responders.

• Hire qualified and experienced professionals for any home modifications, renovations and equipment purchases.

• Ask for help to prepare or purchase specialized meal options (e.g. pureed or minced meals).

• Find a safe, supportive online chat or in-person connection group. While these are often not professional opinions, these connections can be helpful with logistical questions (e.g. where to buy supplies, vacation/travelling tips, etc.) and provide a good listening ear.

• Sign up for newsletters for supports and events – even if you cannot access or do not need services now, you may find them useful in the future.

• Some service clubs/associations will loan out mobility aids (i.e. crutches, wheelchairs, etc.)