Especially for caregivers: Caregiving plan B.

If you’re a caregiver, you may have wondered what would happen to your loved one if you became unable to provide care. What would you do if you suddenly got sick or if you had an accident? It’s unpleasant to think about, but creating a plan B can make your sudden absence, or need for additional support, a smoother transition. It can also bring you peace of mind. Read on to learn about what to consider when creating a contingency caregiving plan.

Rely on your team.

Build a support system before an emergency happens. Caregiving works best when friends or family members can pitch in, so the burden isn’t solely on your shoulders. Start by creating a list of tasks others you trust can assist you with, like buying groceries or picking up prescriptions. If they’re comfortable doing more, ask about what specific help they can offer if something were to happen to you.

Make your plan B official.

Review financial documents, insurance forms, living wills and other official documents. Make sure your loved one has a designated power of attorney, health care proxy or conservator. If you’re that person, work to update your loved one’s paperwork to list someone else who can take over your duties in an emergency. Also, make sure others on your trusted caregiving team have access to important online accounts and passwords.

Stay organized.

Important documents should be stored in a specific location. Create a folder or binder that also includes essential information like phone numbers of family members and doctors, medication lists, daily routines and preferences such as food likes/dislikes. Keep this information in your kitchen or other central location — and create a secure digital copy.

Take care of yourself.

It’s easy to neglect yourself when caring for others. But this can worsen existing health problems or lead to burnout (or both). To maintain good health, try your best to eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep and exercise regularly. Don’t have time for an hour workout? Take the stairs, go on a 20-minute brisk walk or take a free online yoga class. Practice wellness through a relaxing evening routine such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, meditating, listening to music, knitting — anything that quiets your mind. Finally, don’t put off preventive care and screenings, like your annual physical, colonoscopy, mammogram and flu shot. Your health is worth it — for both you and your loved one.

Sources: AARP and CDC.

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Are you a family caregiver? Senior Care Network (SCN) offers professional assistance; referrals to important resources; and support and educational groups specifically designed for family caregivers, including our Powerful Tools for Caregivers class. For more information, call SCN at (626) 397-3110 or (800) 664-4664 or email us at [email protected]. See also Calendar of Events for information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers.