As a general rule, caregiving is required when an individual cannot fully perform the normal everyday activities of life. If you are going to make up for a patient's lack of certain abilities, you will need to draw from a whole array of items to get by.
- - Supplies
In tending to a loved one on a regular basis, as a primary or secondary caregiver, you will need to use a variety of soft goods and personal care items in your efforts. Here is a list of some common items:
CLEANING SUPPLIES
Disinfectant Spray - Sanitizing Wipes - Tissues - Paper Towels - Sponges - Towels and Rags - Trash Bags - Hand Soap - Dish Soap - Laundry Detergent
MEDICAL SUPPLIES
Pain Killers - Decongestants - Laxatives - Antacids - Bandages and Gauze - Antiseptic Ointments - Latex Gloves - Face Masks
CLOTHING SUPPLIES
Absorbant Underwear - Bibs - Socks - Grippy Socks - Slippers - T-shirts - Sweat Pants and Shirt - Pajamas - Nightgown - Robe - Anti-Strip Suit - Light Jacket
HYGIENE SUPPLIES
Mouthwash - Shampoo - Deodorant - Lip Balm - Skin Moisturizer - Absorbant Pads
OTHER SUPPLIES
Binder - Small Notebook - Calendar - Pens and Markers
Now, when you travel and take your patient away from their home base, say, to a store, restaurant, or distant location, you are going to need a TRAVEL KIT for the trunk of your vehicle. Believe me, you are going to need this.
TRAVEL KIT
Plastic Tub or Bin - Absorbant Pads - Absorbant Briefs - Underwear - Shirt and Pants - Light Jacket - Shoes and Socks - Hat or Cap - Sanitary Wipes - Paper Towels - A Towel or Rag - Trash Bags - Latex Gloves - Bottled Water - Plastic Cups - Snacks - Pain Killers - Bandages - Sun Block Lotion - Bug Spray - Utility Knife and Scissors - Work Gloves - Flashlight
- - Equipment
Depending on the situation, you may wish to take advantage of various hard goods and devices to make your client's life better.
ITEMS FOR MOBILITY
Cane - Crutches - Rigid Walker - Wheeled Walker - Transfer Wheelchair - Human Powered Wheelchair - Motorized Wheelchair - Scooter - Wheelchair Accessable Van
BATHROOM ITEMS
Raised Toilet Seat - Portible Toilet - Hand Grip Bars - Shower Seat - Shower Transfer Bench - Walk-in Bathtub or Shower
SITTING & SLEEPING ITEMS
Recliner Chair - Motorized Recliner Chair - Specialty Wheelchair - Adjustable Bed - Hospital Bed - TV Tray - Over-the-bed Rolling Table - Pillows - Blankets
ITEMS FOR DINING
Plastic and Disposable Plates - Eating Utensils - Baby Sippy Cups - Plastic Cups
PERSONAL ITEMS
Eyeglasses - Sunglasses - Hearing Aid - Dentures
ITEMS FOR GROOMING
Toothbrush - Combs and Hairbrushes - Hairdryer - Disposable Razors - Electric Razor - Nail Trimmer - Tweezers
ITEMS FOR CLEANING
Mop - Rags and Towels - Scrub Brush - Vacuum Cleaner
ITEMS FOR HEALTH
Thermometer - Blood Pressure Cuff - Pill Box - Pill Splitter and Crusher
ITEMS FOR SECURITY
Baby Video Monitor - Object Tracker - Fall Detector
ITEMS FOR ENTERTAINMENT
Television - Radio - DVD Player - Computer - Books and Magazines - Games and Puzzles - Hobby Supplies
OTHER ITEMS
Backpack or Bag - Plastic Tubs - Plastic storage bags
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Here are some online sources of home care supplies and equipment: