VALUABLES

Ask yourself the following questions: Can the person receiving care manage checks, credit cards or cash? Does care recipient remember or understand meaning/value/significance of heirlooms/jewelry or other valuables?

 

If the answer is no, then all these subjects in question should not be left in the home. If cash must be left in the house in caregiver’s control, a record of expenditures must be kept. You should never give permission for caregivers to charge credit cards or write checks for the client.

 

If heirlooms, jewelry or other valuables must be left in the house, get an appraisal of all items and photograph all items.

 

Remember, bonded and insured caregivers can only be held 100% accountable if it can be proven beyond reasonable doubt that the item in question existed.

 

 

 

 

 

Safety First!

Free home of clutter, especially main thoroughfare—rooms, hallways, stairs. Remove all throw rugs that could cause tripping and falling.  If electrical extension cords are utilized, ensure that they are strategically placed to also avoid tripping. It is also important to safety proof all electrical outlets. Be sure lighting is adequate. The use nightlights or motion sensor lights are great to insure adequate lighting during night-time hours.

Make sure all stair railings (inside and outside) are not lose or wobbly. During winter months, be sure all snow and ice is removed from stairs, walkways and driveways. In the Fall, be sure leaves are cleared from walkways and stairs. Be sure outside lights work properly so stairs and walkways are illuminated.