Dementia caregivers are constantly on the go and having to deal with the unexpected. Even the most experienced caregivers can get overwhelmed and stressed when things become too hectic. One of the most critical things that you can do as a caregiver to manage your stress and help things run more smoothly is to be organized. Making yourself a “to-go bag” is a solid step in the right direction.
A strategically and well-stocked to-go bag will prove to be most useful in everyday activities as well as emergency situations. You will be ready for medical emergencies, doctor and therapy visits, and even quick changes in caregiving situations such as another caregiver filling in for the day. Not only good for managing big problems, having a dedicated caregiver bag can also help you be prepared for minor issues like small spills or a low battery charge on your phone or tablet.
A caregiver bag can also help if you need to delegate responsibilities to someone who is not the primary caregiver, as it will provide them with everything they need – located all in one place. You can even give the bag a name for easy reference like “mom’s bag” or “dad’s bag,” so that it is understood that this bag goes with the person you are caring for.
Essential Features of a Good To-Go Bag:
An ideal bag would be a large backpack, tote, or duffel similar to a diaper bag. You want something that can fit the items you need, but that is small and portable enough to carry with you in a pinch. When deciding on a bag, consider storage (pockets), organization, and the comfort of the sling or strap. You may also want the bag to be waterproof or consider getting a small waterproof container for wet items.
Some examples of what this bag may look like:
What Goes in the Bag?
The items in your caregiver bag should be personalized to the needs of your loved one, but generally may include these items:
- Patient fact sheet- Keep your loved one’s basic and relevant information all together for easy sharing with healthcare providers. This fact sheet may include:
- His or her full legal name. (Be sure it matches insurance and other documents)
- List of any existing conditions or chronic illnesses.
- Current medications, including over-the-counter treatments, with dosages and schedules.
- Allergies or adverse reactions to any medications as well as food sensitivities. (Some treatments and diagnostic procedures can be affected by food allergies.)
- Regular healthcare providers (names and phone numbers), including the primary care physician and any specialists, along with the specific conditions each specialist is addressing.
- Special dietary considerations, including low sodium, diabetic, halal, kosher, vegetarian.
- Communication issues. Ask yourself whether the loved one often becomes confused easily, has a speech or hearing impairment, or is more comfortable speaking in a language other than English.
- Your information, including name, relationship and contact information, plus that of another trusted family member or friend. Be sure to include mobile numbers if these are not the primary contact numbers.
- Folder with Copies of Important Documents:
- Insurance card (front and back, as authorization numbers often are on the reverse)
- Medicare/Medicaid card
- Driver’s license/Photo ID
- Social Security card
- Medical power of attorney/Durable power of attorney
- Advance care directives like living will, do-not-resuscitate order
- Organ donor affidavit if applicable
- Bags or Containers with Personal Items:
- Medications
- Incontinence supplies (adult diapers, disposable wipes, etc.)
- A change of clothing (and a plastic bag for soiled clothes)
- Healthy snacks
- Water bottle
- Antibacterial hand gel
- First aid supplies
- Entertainment or activities (like a fidget toy)
- A small amount of cash
In addition to these items for the person you’re caring for, you may also want to consider items for yourself. These may include a warm jacket or sweater, a notebook/planner and something to write with, a spare charger, and hobby items like a book or knitting materials for long periods in the waiting room. Even amidst the stress of appointments and big decisions, it’s important for you to consider your own mental health and well-being.
Overnight Bags
Whereas this caregiver bag will help you be prepared for any day-to-day needs, you may want to consider a separate bag packed with items necessary for potential overnight stays such as hospital visits. You can keep this overnight bag in a designated space like the closet where anyone can grab it in a pinch. These overnight items may include:
- Eyeglasses/contact lenses
- Denture storage and cleaning supplies
- Hearing aid batteries
- A change of clothes and/or pajamas
- Incontinence supplies
- Toiletry bag with travel sized items
- Comfort items
Emergency Kits
Because people with Alzheimer’s disease can be especially vulnerable during weather-related emergencies, you may also be interested in creating an emergency kit for your loved one. These kits, stored in your home in waterproof containers, contain care items and important supplies (like spare batteries, flashlights, and sturdy shoes) that may come in handy for emergencies like storms or other severe weather.
Summary
Because you never know what you will need, it’s important to keep your caregiver bag stocked. Make it a habit to check your bag for items you’re out of or running low on so you can replenish them. Overall, caregiver go-bags are a small effort in exchange for a big payoff. Assembling this bag can help you consider your loved one’s needs, identify potential oversights, and feel confidence in your ability to provide care in every moment.
Sources: National Institute on Aging, Illinois Cognitive Resources Network, Home Helpers Home Care, Assisting Hands Home Care, Homeworks UMC, Healthline
