Support for Caregivers

How to Play a Role in Your Loved One’s Recovery

We encourage patients to pick a key person to support them during their hospital stay. Whether you are that primary support person or just one of many people caring for and supporting your loved one, you can play an important role in making sure your loved one gets the safest and best care both here—and beyond the hospital.

What to Know Before You Leave

Caregivers can help ensure the best outcome for their loved one after a hospital stay by getting the answers to these three questions:

• What is the next step for medical care (home or facility, follow-up with primary care physician or physical therapy, etc.)? Help your loved one arrange the details to make this happen—financial plan, transportation, scheduling, etc.
  
• What new and former medicines does my loved one need to take? Help your loved one understand the details—timing, dosing instructions, side effects, prescription refills, etc.
  
• What health warning signs do I need to watch for, and what do I do if they happen? Help your loved one by writing these symptoms down, as well as the name and contact number to call.

Caregivers Need Care Too

Caring for a loved one is an important job, but so is taking care of yourself. Try these tips to reduce stress and stay on top of your loved one's care:

• Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
• Exercise 20 minutes a day, three days a week.
• Ask for help with chores and meals.
• Reach out to family or friends if you need a break.