Once a family member realizes that some caregiving assistance is necessary in the home to care for a loved one, it is time to analyze the tasks and hours when this help will provide the maximum benefit. Listing daily caregiving needs and the times that they are done is helpful. Usually, caregiving tasks of bathing, dressing, and breakfast are accomplished in the morning. Lunch and afternoon activities take place midday, and dinner, toileting, and bedtime rituals are done at night. If full-time caregiving service is not affordable, then a careful review of the task list can help in determining what hours of professional caregiving will provide the most relief in the family’s daily schedule. Engage a caregiver for those hours.
