Modern Mississauga Media

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Medical Monday - A testament to caregivers

Over 8 million Canadians provide care to a chronically ill or disabled friend or loved one. (1) 

Are you a Caregiver or know someone that is?  Caregivers provide direct care for elderly people, the chronically ill, or individuals with disabilities. 

Family members are often caregivers that assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).  Some responsibilities of personal care include toileting, exercise, bathing and grooming.  Other duties include preparing meals, housekeeping, shopping, laundry and other errands.  A caregiver is most commonly used to support an individual related to old age, disability, disease or a mental disorder. 

Providing care for the elderly or disabled can be a lonely job, and in many cases, a full-time commitment.  Family caregivers, also known as “carers” are often even unpaid and can also be relatives, friends or neighbours.  To avoid burnout, caregivers should enlist others to pitch in to provide some respite.  Finding a local support group where you can meet people in person and obtaining professional help are ways to reduce depression.    

If you are a caregiver, give yourself credit for doing one of the toughest jobs.  Be sure to speak to a health care professional about ways to make your job easier.  Physical or mental disabilities, for example, can restrict people from moving from a bed to a chair, this is also called transferring.  Transfer boards bridge the gap between transfer points such as going from a wheelchair to bed or shower chair to other surfaces.  Medical Mart offers a safe and secure transfer board from our distribution partner, Medline.  This board allows for several small movements instead of one big motion.  A transfer board is also ideal as it needs less upper body strength. 

Some other aids to help with daily living include sock aids, holding mitts for bathing, swivel utensils for eating independently, reaching aids, zipper pulls and so much more.  Click here to see some other items that support ADLs.  

It is important that we recognize caregivers as they are very patient, dependable, compassionate and trustworthy.  The true value of caregivers exceeds any monetary worth.  On behalf of Medical Mart, we would like to thank all of those who assist in the care of those in need. 

Visit Medical Mart Heartland Town Centre for all your health care needs.  
Matheson Blvd. West, Unit 101, Mississauga ON L5R 4B8
Easily accessible by bus route 66 McLaughlin (McLaughlin and Matheson)
Phone: (905) 624-2011 Toll Free: (800) 379-4780
store@medimart.com www.medimarthomehealthcare.ca
www.facebook.com/medimartretail YouTube
Hours: Monday – Friday:  9:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday:  10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Disclaimer:  The content in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice for medical conditions.  Please do not stop pain relieving medication without a prior consultation with your doctor.  You should not use this information to diagnose a health problem.  Please consult a qualified healthcare provider. 

References:

1.  Stats Canada, 2012.