Easterseals helps caregivers during the holiday season

Easterseals reminds people with aging loved ones to take the time to check in with them this holiday season, whether they live close by or are separated by hundreds of miles.

Although the distance may change, the responsibility and dedication of a caregiver remain the same. Whether one checks in by phone or video chat, or in person, Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore has some advice to help people keep their loved ones safe during the holidays and throughout the year.

Those interested can call Easterseals to schedule a virtual tour of the resource center to learn about assistive technology or devices that may be helpful to keep a loved one safe and independent. Virtual tours are made possible through a generous grant from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, which provided the support to add cameras throughout the center.

One useful tip is to get to know loved ones’ neighbors and friends so they can speak up if they see a problem or can help in a time of need.

Compile a list of a loved one’s medications and schedules in case of a medical emergency, and update it frequently – consider medication reminders and organizers. Easterseals case managers may have suggestions.

To learn about fall risks and when to talk to a loved one’s healthcare provider, go to tinyurl.com/tzh3tdex.

Look through the home for possible hazards such as unsafe stairs or loose rugs. For a home safety checklist from the CDC, go to tinyurl.com/hlrsxgm. Arrange for necessary home modifications such as stability bars in the shower or seat lifters for the toilet.

Turn to the Easterseals Caregiver and Assistive Technology Resource Center in Sussex County. Case managers are available to help people find answers at resources@esdel.org or 302-221-2087.

To learn more, go to de.easterseals.com.