Trending
Structure can be defined as -- "construct or arrange according to a plan; give a pattern or organization to."
How many of you live a structured life? Maybe the Type A personalities? I am thankful for my husband and friends who find solace in structure.
As for me, I am definitely a Type B person and I actually find some comfort in chaos. I also know at times, I am a hot mess and need more structure in my life. So… how is that accomplished?
I know writing out a list is one way to start. I have tried lists and sometimes I am successful, and other times, I am trying to find what random sheet of paper I wrote the list on.
Structure is essential to the success of people with dementia and their caregiving team. Planning ahead and creating routines is crucial. For example, working from a calendar for meals, activities, outings, and other events, will keep the caregiver on top of things.
Tip: Buy a calendar with magnets that can hang on the refrigerator for easy access. Start with family birthdays, planned parties or events for the month, holiday get togethers, doctors' appointments, bill due dates, meal plans, and hopefully you can squeeze in a date night or book club.
This may sound like a lot (after seeing this list, you may need two calendars, haha) but it is a best practice for staying organized and prepared.
Knowing what you are eating for the month (or at least two weeks out), will eliminate a lot of last-minute stress. Use the power of the internet and technology by getting curbside pick up orders for groceries, set up auto pay for your bills, and send gift cards through emails for birthdays or weddings.
Something else to have magnetized to your refrigerator is an up-to-date list of medications you and your loved one takes. God forbid there is an unexpected accident or incident; this will help first responders or other loved ones be able to get up to date information to the hospital or physician. I also advocate that you have pertinent information, including name, address, and phone number of your MPOA (Medical Power of Attorney) on the refrigerator.
Lastly, your wishes for CPR or DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) hanging there as well. This information will ensure your wishes are met. There are In Case of Emergency magnet cards that have a section to list medications, surgeries, allergies, date of birth, MPOA, name of physician, etc. I have found these on Amazon and at medical supply stores.
Having an "emergency go bag" ready is also essential. If you or your loved one needed emergency care, someone can come in and get the "in case of emergency" magnet and your go bag and have all the information needed for any healthcare personnel to use and easily understand.
Again, having structure in this manner is extremely important for caregivers. It will give you peace of mind and take some of the stress away.
I will dive further into structure and the advantages of that in the next column.