“Caregiving 101” Blog

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: June 2010 – The Beacon Online by Starr Calo-oy

How To Bathe A Bed Bound Person

A bed or sponge bath might be more appropriate in certain circumstances. If he can’t sit up, is very heavy or semi–conscience, a bed bath will be much easier for you and your loved one.
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As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: May 2010 – The Beacon Online by Starr Calo-oy

If your loved one is able-bodied and doesn’t mind a ride in the car, it will be easier to go to the hairdresser than to attempt doing it yourself at home. (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: April 2010 – The Beacon Online by Starr Calo-oy

There are going to be times you and your siblings will disagree with the way you are caring for your relative. Believe me, you may feel unappreciated, underpaid and overworked! Why? They think different than you do! People handle emotional pain and disappointment in different ways. A few of the factors that will cause people to think differently are: (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: March 2010 – The Beacon Online
by Starr Calo-oy

You had it all planned out. After the children had left the nest, you and your spouse would spend time traveling the world on the savings you had accumulated throughout the years. Great plan, right?

Then it happened, your parent got sick and had to move in with you permanently.

Now your days are filled with diapers, baths and constant, non–sensical arguments instead of long luxurious cruises. Your nights are spent holding your parents’ hand instead of your spouse on warm, sandy beaches. Where did the romance go? (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: February 2010 – The Beacon Online
by Starr Calo-oy

Starr Calo-oy

Granted, it’s very exciting now that you finally have your loved one at home with you where he will be safe and you can spend more time with him but make sure to include your family in the caregiving now so they don’t feel left out.

Before he moves in, have a heart–to–heart with your spouse. If your loved one has trouble sleeping, eating, dressing or bathing, discuss it with your spouse. Explain to him that this will take time away from him and your children. I’ll tell you what– let me tell him– have him read this: (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: January 2010 – The Beacon Online
by Starr Calo-oy

Starr Calo-oy

To agree with my loved one instead of arguing with her. To let her think she is right– To yield as Jesus does.

To stop correcting her. To realize I do not need to try to change anyone but myself!

To help preserve her dignity as a human being rather than making her feel stupid. To respect, encourage and praise her. (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: October 2009 – The Beacon Online
by Starr Calo-oy

Starr Calo-oy

Question:

Each time I go to visit my dad, he tries to prevent me from leaving. I feel so guilty, but I find myself going to see him less because I am running out of excuses to get away. What can I do? (more…)

Violence, the Person with Dementia and You

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: September 2009 – The Beacon Online
by Starr Calo-oy

Starr Calo-oy

There are two situations you must adjust to when you take on the care of a full–grown adult;
(1) coping with a flood of mixed emotions and (2) the daily hands on care. (more…)

As printed in “The Beacon” San Antonio’s Christian Newspaper

Article Date: Wed, 07/29/2009 – The Beacon Online – Article
by Starr Calo-oy

Starr Calo-oy

All forms of dementia are brain damage and one trait of some brain-damaged individuals is violent behavior. There are certain triggers that can precede a catastrophic emergency in some people. (more…)