Umfrage zeigt häufige Probleme: Angehörige pflegen: Diese Tipps können helfen

A recent survey conducted by the Center for Quality in Care (ZQP) reveals that caring for elderly individuals at home poses significant challenges for family members. The survey, which included 1,012 caregivers aged 40 to 85 who have been providing care to a 60-year-old or older person with a high level of care for at least six months, found that 53% of respondents feel mentally stressed, with 71% feeling this way specifically in cases of dementia.

Additionally, 50% of caregivers report that medications have been administered incorrectly or not at all to the care recipient during the past six months, with 19% indicating that this occurs repeatedly.

To ensure proper medication administration, the ZQP recommends creating a medication schedule based on the patient's physician's recommendations and keeping it current and detailed. This schedule should include all medications, dietary supplements, and alternative therapies, specifying the dosage, frequency, and duration. Patients should be informed about the medication's purpose, potential side effects, interactions, dosage, timing, and storage requirements.

Consultation with physicians, pharmacists, and care professionals can provide further clarification. Regular monitoring of medication expiration and supply levels is also important.

Proper medication application requires checking the medication, dose, and timing before each use, washing and thoroughly drying hands, and ensuring the care recipient maintains an upright position while receiving medication. It's essential to avoid compounding medications in a pillbox and to seek clarification from the pharmacy regarding any blistering.

When swallowing becomes difficult, tablets should not be crushed or capsules opened without professional approval. If the medication does not work as prescribed or if the caregiver refuses to administer it, prompt medical advice should be sought. Caregivers must also acknowledge their limitations and maintain a balance between their own needs and caregiving responsibilities, seeking support from family, friends, neighbors, or professional care services when needed.