Directing your own care, whether through self-directed care or advance care planning, empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being, ensuring your wishes are honored and your quality of life is maximized. It allows you to have a say in your care, whether it’s choosing your caregiver, selecting specific services, or making decisions about end-of-life care. Here are some tips that focus on communication, planning, and self-advocacy:
- Know your needs. Start by making a list of your daily routines, medical needs, and any other support you regularly require. Include things that are important to you like social activities, how you like your food prepared, and how you prefer to be positioned in bed.
- Write or Record Instructions. Create a Care Handbook that oulines your preferences and needs. Or you can use voice or video recordings, whatever works best for you.
- Be clear about boundaries. Let your caregiver know what is and isn’t ok. This includes physical boundaries, privacy, and how you want to be addressed or spoken to.
- Train your Caregivers. This can be intimidating and your CIL can help with the process. Don’t assume people know how to help you just because they’ve worked in care before. Show them how you want things done. Whether it’s transferring you or helping you get dressed, it’s your preferences that matter.
- Use Show & Tell. Demonstrate techniques whenever possible, or have a family member or someone you trust show them. Use props, diagrams, videos and step by step instructions.
- Set expectations early. From the beginning, talk about communication, punctuality, documentation and attitude. Be upfront and prepared to give feedback and address problems at the beginning.
You can be empowered to take control of your care. And your CIL can help!