A carer is anyone, including children and adults who looks after a family member, partner or friend who needs help because of their illness, frailty, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction and cannot cope without their support. The care they give is unpaid.
In some areas, carers can also apply for a carers card, which acts as physical ID that lets others, such as shops or attractions, know that you're a carer. Carers can find out if they can get a carers card by checking with their local carer support organisation or local authority.
6 signs you're a family caregiver You run errands for others. You keep track of another's finances. You prepare meals for your family. You help with transportation. You attend a loved one's doctor appointments. You put your family's schedule and needs before your own.
4 legal documents every family caregiver needs A Will. A will is one of the most important legal documents that family caregivers should have. Advance Health Care Plan. Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care. Durable Power of Attorney for Finances.
What to Include in a Checklist for Caregivers Name of caregiver on duty. Date the checklist is being used. Name of patients. Patient's morning, afternoon, and evening routines, such as: Taking medication and vital signs. Eating food and drinking water. Housekeeping tasks to do. Changes in patient's condition, if any.
Here are options for personalizing your search for in-home care. Ask friends and neighbors who have employed caregivers for recommendations, names, phone numbers and hourly rates of those they found to be outstanding. Consult the community. Contact your Area Agency on Aging and ask for recommendations.
Passing State-Mandated Competency Examinations. Upon completing your caregiver training course, you must pass a competency exam. This exam is a requirement for getting your caregiver certification. Passing this exam proves that you have the relevant skills and knowledge to care for others professionally.