Preparing for At-Home Disability Care

Bringing a disabled person to live with you can be quite challenging. This is especially so when you and your family members have little experience in dealing with disabled people. If you find yourself in such a position, this article explains in detail how you should prepare and adapt to the situation. 

Preparing yourself

Before you decide to take in a disabled person in your home, you must ask yourself if you are ready for the new responsibilities. Read as much as you can about the disability and the needs of such patients. You can also inquire from other caregivers about how it is like to take care of people with the said disability. In such a way, you can decide beforehand whether you can handle the new responsibilities. 

Preparing family members

Inform your family that you intend to provide at-home disability care. Below are a few ways to prepare them:

• You can take them to visit the disabled person if they do not know him or her.
• Explain to them the challenges that the disabled person faces on a day to day basis.
• Prepare them for changes in routine around the house once the disabled person moves in.
• You can also ask them to volunteer to take care of the individual. However, be cautious of what tasks you assign to children.
• If you will have a caregiver or medical professional coming to take care of the disabled person, alert your family members.

Preparing your home

It is critical to ensure that your home is disability friendly. For instance, if the person will be on a wheelchair ensure that they can access various areas of your home and compound. Some forms of disabilities may require you to buy an alarm to alert you in case the person falls, becomes unconscious or if they leave your property. You may also have to renovate the bathroom to ensure that it is disability friendly.

Welcoming the disabled person

Once the disabled person arrives at your home, your immediate task should be to make them feel welcome. Show the person around the house and if possible, explain the dos and don'ts of your home. If the person can communicate, ask him or her how you can improve their comfort during their stay.

Taking in a disabled loved one should be a carefully calculated move. Prepare yourself and family members for the new changes. Besides, prepare your home and welcome the individual.

Share