Time to Get Organized!
On these hot and humid “dog days”, it’s a good excuse to stay indoors and do some organizing, or just take a break.
Dear Caregivers,
We’re now entering the “dog days” of summer, the hot, sultry days of heat that come at the end of July and beginning of August. The term "dog days" come from the ancient Roman times, because the bright star Sirius, which is also known as the “dog star,” rises with the sun during this part of the year, and the Romans erroneously believed that this celestial body contributed to the heat of the day. (Sirius is part of the constellation “Canis Major,” which translates to “Greater Dog” in Latin.)
The Romans saw the dog days as the coming of bad luck, but I try to "look on the bright side" and use these hot days as a good excuse to stay indoors and do some organizing! As a family caregiver you might use this time to relax, find a little breathing room, and enjoy the slower the pace of activities. It can also be a perfect time for some organizing of your own.
Here are a few articles that I hope will inspire you to get you started:
Time Management for Caregivers:
While there isn’t a way to create more time in the day, there are methods that can help you get the most out of every minute. Here are some strategies to help manage time effectively and free up time for yourself.
Caregiver’s Plan B:
No family caregiver wants to think they wouldn't be able to help their loved one. But the chance that something could happen to you that would make it impossible for you to provide the care and support that you do now makes it critical you identify an individual who would be the best “Plan B” caregiver. This person will be able to quickly take over as advocate and guardian for your Loved One in the event that is needed. Here’s how to create your Plan B.
The Basics of Advanced Directives:
In situations where your loved one cannot speak for themselves, medical personnel will turn to the next of kin to get help in making important health decisions. It is important to have your loved one’s wishes of how to respond in a serious medical situation be known in advance, through several documents such as an Advanced Directive and a Living Will. Here’s what you need to know about these important documents.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.”.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt
