I want to become a Carer for my grandmother but don't know where to start...

[gemstone90]

Hello,

My first post, so I'll shall explain from the beginning.

My grandmother has helped me for my entire life. Sadly, she started to develop dementia a few years ago and it has now gotten to the point of no return. My uncle has moved in with her, but he has a full time job, so is impractical for him to care for her. She has become incontinent, doesn't know where she is, asks the same questions and is lonely.

I am about to graduate from university and would like to become her home carer. Thing is, I have no idea where to start. Could someone please provide with a checklist or points so I know exactly what I would have to do to help my nan?

MAny thanks

Gem

[sue38]

Hi Gem and welcome to Talking Point (TP).

I think it's great that you want to care for your nan, but I'm not sure anyone can provide you with a foolproof checklist. Every person with dementia has different needs.

I would recommend that you have a good read of the threads on here to see what issues you might encounter. You might also have a look at some of the factsheets.

[carastro]

If you're considering becoming her full time Carer and get paid Carers allowance, I think you have to be be providing something like 40 hours care per week (or somesuch). Carer's allowance is poorly paid but I admire your wish to look after your grandmother. Hopefully you will get some time off to do things for youself when your uncle is home.

Your Nan's care will depend on her needs, you need to find out what is needed.
i.e.
As she is incontinent, you should be able to get help from the Social services with washing and dressing her, plus she should be able to receive incontinence pads from the Incontinence Nurse. As she has dementia, you might need some input from the local Memory clinic. Inform her GP that you are to become her Carer.

There is a Nationwide charity that supports the Carers as well, with a "younger carers" branch and there should be a branch local to you. They offer all kinds of help.

http://www.carersuk.org/

Request a visit from Age Concern and they can tell you what sort of help is out there and can advise on things you can or should be doing. Other than that, just making sure she is clean, safe, fed well, has her medications correctly, and take her out for a break to the shops or park if possible. She might also be eligible for a morning at a Day Centre.


Carastro