CATCH THEM BEING GOOD OR NOT for Families of Loved Ones

What you may have never thought to observe when visiting a loved one in a facility whether short term or long term. And those with home care providers. Wanting the best care for our loved ones!! Feel free to ask questions or post your personal experience.

•      Don’t make your visits routine. Visit at various times of the day. Got an early start prior to work, can’t sleep or on the run— pop in and visit even if it’s a short stay.

•      Wears Glasses?  Are they on, accessible for reach and clean?      

•      Wears Dentures? Are they in their mouth, removed at night for deep cleaning,      gums/tongue cleansed? Own teeth, brushed? Properly Fitted?

•     Nails cleaned and trimmed? Or is there food and dirt embedded?

•     Fluids within reach,  fresh,  adaptable for drinking with straws and large handles?

•     Clean Shaven or 7 day shadow, including nose and ear hairs?

•     Call Cord within reach? Remember, that is their life line/means of communication.

•      Adaptive Equipment in reach? Such as wheelchair, walker, cane, reachers?  Remember, these are their legs and arms.

•    Diapers “Protective Garments”- Have then been changed or soiled?

•    Skin free from bruises, breakdown, irritation, wounds (old or new), dry (lotion applied), skin tears, rashes or finger indentations?

•    Sheets/Blankets clean? Remove blankets and turn pillows over!

•    Hair clean/brushed or matted in the back from lying in one position?

•    Confined to their bed? Are they turned, in proper alignment, supported with blankets/pillows?

•    Clothing changed and clean? Or are they in the same outfit?

•    Odors?? Dirty clothing/undergarments, lack of showers, mouth hygiene?

•    Feet odors, washed and dried, free from fungus, cracks, untrimmed, foot drop from lack of support?

•    Under breasts, especially those well endowed, free from rash, yeast infection and odor?

•    Wheelchairs clean or is there dirt and food embedded? Are the foot rests/pegs in place or in the closet?

•    Personal Items in reach, such as phone, tissues, glasses and water?

•    Meals served warm or ice cold, cut up/prepared properly for eating or left at bedside?