Reviewed by Cherie Fisher for Reader Views (8/07)
I was really impressed with the comprehensive material in this 3rd edition of "The Comfort of Home."As a Social Worker in a previous life, this would have been the book that I would have given to individuals who were considering becoming a primary caregiver.Nothing has been left out in this very well-written guide that a person needs to consider when undertaking this process.
"The Comfort of Home" is set up so that it can be read from beginning to end, or as a reference guide that a person can look up specifics.Oftentimes, taking on the task of a caregiver seems completely overwhelming.Meyer helps break the tasks down into manageable steps that include tips, questions that need to be asked and additional resources to follow up with.The author begins the book by helping the reader decide if home care is an option for them to consider.Her approach is honest and guilt-free for the person making this decision.Following this process, a person needs to decide what level of care is needed and whether this can be provided at home. I really thought that the section on paying for care through Medicare, Medicare part D, Medigap and the many other types of benefits was easy to follow.
As a proponent of long-term planning, I especially liked the section for setting up a care plan.Following these suggestions will make it easy to have someone step in as a temporary caregiver to give the primary caregiver a break, reporting to medical staff and in helping the caregiver not to make mistakes.Being a caregiver can be exhausting and keeping records on the patient, especially with important medication schedules.There are so many chapters that cover every aspect of a person's life such as exercise, diet, nutrition, special challenges and daily activities.Each area is thoughtfully addressed and ends with other available resources in dealing with that area.
The author does an excellent job throughout "The Comfort of Home" in reminding the caregiver to take care of themselves.She even includes a whole section on how to avoid burnout and ends with dealing with funeral arrangements and the grieving process.I would highly recommend this guide to anyone who is considering becoming a caregiver.
Product DescriptionBurnout -the complete drain of physical, spiritual, and emotional reserves -occurs when a caregiver slips into exhaustion or depression. More and more frequently, the responsibility of caring for the chronically ill child, the disabled spouse, or the aging parent falls on a family member. From the decision to be a caregiver to dealing with day-to-day activities, this guide provides help with every aspect of home care. Also included in this edition are a checklist of tasks, a chapter on self-care and avoiding caregiver burnout, a glossary, and list of helpful resources.
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The Comfort of Home: A Complete Guide for Caregivers (Comfort of Home, The) (Paperback)
This book is a Godsend to anyone who wants to eat good food that is healthy and tastes good.I had the priviledge of having Dave Grotto as a nutritionist during chemotherapy and radiation for breast cancer.He came to my home and went through all my cabinets to show me all the items that were 'bad' or 'good', then tagged them with stickers, so I wouldnt forget. Then he took me grocery shopping to show me all the great foods that are great tasting and also very healthy.So many foods we dont realize are right in front of us that we dont try!!He taught me how to read labels, not just by fat and carbs, but the ingredient contents, and explained how to make them.It was fun and educational.I am happy to say that one year after my last treatment, my last check up was wonderful, no signs of cancer!!!!Coinsedence or fact, that foods play a big part in your health?Probably both, but I am not giving up on all the advice that Dave gave me.Im feeling wonderful.Everything he told me in person, is also in his book.I take it shopping me all the time, and refer to it quite often.Buy the book!!!You WILL NOT regret it!!
