This book is an excellent guide for the layperson who finds himself in the position of becoming a caregiver, whether long or short-term. Health care professionals, patients, and families often say that people leave the hospital 'sicker and quicker'. This book is a valuable resource for those people who find themselves in need of homecare.
Specific chapters deal with personal care, hygiene, mobility, environment, and palliative care.
Definitions of health care professionals, commonly used medical terms, and availability of agencies and organizations are offered. A Patient' Bill of Rights is included. Sample charts for recording activities of daily living are very useful. The advice given is concise, easily read and provides quick and efficient ways of coping with the physical and emotional demands that may be made upon the caregiver, who may not have much time to prepare for this new lifestyle. Because this book was written by experienced lay-caregivers under the guidance of professionals, the language is easy to understand.