How RememberItNow! Gives Grandma a Break and Mom Peace-of-Mind
As the primary caregiver for my grandpa, my grandmother is frequently overwhelmed. For several years my entire family has tried to get her to hire some help, but she would shrug and say, “I would rather just take care of Grandpa myself.” Of course, this really took a toll on her own wellness.
When she did get some help, she complained that it was more time consuming for her to explain all the new medications, stats, and directions to a new caregiver.
When I introduced RememberItNow! to her, she wasn’t too sure. But within a few weeks, she decided I knew what I was doing. Having all of Grandpa’s information in one place means that she doesn’t have to explain the routine to new caregivers, or dig up contacts and website links. And it means my mother and I can help her keep an eye on Grandpa’s care from wherever we are.
One of the features of RememberItNow! she loves is the Health Journal. She uses it to coordinate care and provide instructions for the day.
Grandma even moved the computer to the living room so that the caregiver has quick access to it. When a caregiver arrives they log in. Here’s how an entry looks to start:
Notice where the red arrow is pointing above. The Journal’s time stamp on each entry makes it easy for someone like my grandmother to keep track of a caregiver’s hours, and it ensures punctuality as an extra bonus.
The care giver simply logs in, makes an entry of her or his arrival, looks at the activities scheduled for the day, and continues on with their work.
One of the responsibilities Grandpa’s caregiver has is to record his blood sugar and blood pressure during the day. They record the readings, his overall wellness, and significant events in the journal during the day.
The journal gives Grandma a sense of control and freedom. It makes it easy for her to leave instructions, and to have a history of activity. She knows everything the caregiver needs to help Grandpa can be found within RememberItNow! And, when she gets home, she has a record of the days activities.
My mother often logs in from work during the day to check on things. She can see all the important items right from the dashboard.
RememberItNow! gives my mother peace-of-mind, knowing that grandma can get out for a bit or get some much need sleep during the night. Mom can now do a checkup on things without going by the house. Most important, RememberItNow! helps to keep grandpa healthier. Happy holidays to all the grandpas out there, and especially my “avo” (Portuguese for grandpa 
.
This is really great. With this, Elder care and all its other responsibilities will be a lot less complicated. We could really simplify things.
Comment by ladolceliving — April 14, 2010 @ 7:07 pm