Home care: common mistakes and how to avoid them

Care at homecan be an act of love, but it's also a challenge. "Pretty Best Friends" shows us an idealized version of home care - full of humour and warmth. But in reality, family caregivers often reach their limits.

A senior citizen sits on a sofa and receives support from her carer, who holds her hand.

 

How can you avoid the typical stumbling blocks in home care? What helps you to overcome challenges better and provide care with love and professionalism? This article gives you practical tips and shows how noracares can support you.

 

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The most common stumbling blocks in home care

Lack of nursing knowledge

Imagine you are caring for a relative who is bedridden. You have to move them regularly, wash them and perhaps even treat wounds. Without experience, this can quickly become overwhelming.

Solution Section
Solution:
  • Free training courses, such as those offered by the Red Cross or Caritas, are a valuable help. There you can learn the basics of care and exchange ideas with other relatives.
Elegant Tip Section
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Nora's tip:We are working on a "First aid course for family caregivers". Sign up for our newsletter here to be notified.

 

Medication errors

Administering medication at the right time, in the right dose and in the right way is complex. Taking them incorrectly can lead to side effects or even health risks.

Solution Section
Solution:
  • Use medication blistering, where tablets are safely sorted into blister strips
    • .
  • Always follow the doctor's intake schedule and ask if you are unsure.

 

Dangers in the home

Carpet edges, slippery floors or doorsteps - the home can quickly become a source of danger. A safe environment is essential to prevent falls.

Solution Section
Solution:
  • Remove tripping hazards and make the home barrier-free
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  • Care aids such as wheelchairs, commode chairs or care beds can be easily borrowed.
Elegant Tip Section
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Nora's tip: Conversions such as stair lifts or bathrooms suitable for the disabled are often supported by health insurance. An outpatient care service can advise you on this.

 

Financial burdens

The costs of care, renovations or loss of earnings can quickly become a burden. Many relatives shy away from hiring care staff - out of concern about high costs or because they want to provide the care themselves.

Solution Section
Solution:
  • Inform yourself in good time about care allowance and other support benefits such as care leave or the family bonus
    • .
  • Submit applications in good time, e.g. via the Ministry of Social Affairs.
Elegant Tip Section
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Nora's tip:Care insurance often covers the costs of external caregivers.Find out more

 

Mental stress of family caregivers

The balance between care, work and private life is difficult. Many relatives feel isolated and exhausted.

Solution Section
Solution:
  • Take time out and plan breaks. Short-term care or outpatient services can provide relief.
  • Use free services such as family meetings with psychologists or self-help groups
    • .
Elegant Tip Section
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Nora's tip: Our platform helps you to find a replacement at short notice - be it for a few hours or several weeks..

 

Typical maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them

Various medications in blister packs on a table for pain management

 

Medication errors

A common mistake is forgetting or mixing up medications. Use medication systems or apps that remind you to take them.

Wound infections

Improper wound care can be dangerous. Learn the right moves and use sterile materials.

Decubitus (pressure ulcers)

Sitting or lying down for long periods without movement leads to pressure sores. Regular repositioning and special mattresses help to minimize the risk.

Falls

A sudden fall can permanently restrict mobility. Make sure you have non-slip floors and supportive aids.

Lack of hygiene

Inadequate hygiene can promote infections. Regular hand washing and disinfection are essential.

 

Prevention and quality management

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Regular training courses

Keep up to date and educate yourself. Training courses on administering medication or fall-prevention are useful.

Clear instructions

Simple checklists or care plans help to keep an overview.

Good collaboration

A strong care team and open communication with relatives reduce sources of error.

Report errors

Reporting systems help to document care errors and learn from them.

 

Special case: dementia

Caring for people with dementia requires special sensitivity. Changes in behavior can be stressful for relatives.

Elegant Tip Section
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Nora's tip: Read more about the approach of Prof. Erwin Böhm, who has developed a psychosocial model for dealing with dementia. You can find information at Find out more

 

 

Graphic of nurse Nora with a stethoscope around her neck and the text 'Nora's conclusion' on a green banner. Closing remark or summary in the healthcare sector.

Care is love, but also responsibility. Don't forget to take care of yourself. Whether you're looking for support for a few hours or a long-term solution - noracares is your partner for optimal home care.

With noracares, you will not only find the right caregiver, but also comprehensive support for your individual challenges. Start now and experience how easy care can be!

Register here

 

Nora's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

noracares FAQs

 

 

Graphic logo of Nora's treasure trove of knowledge, a collection of information for caregivers. Ideal for presenting nursing knowledge and advice.
  • In need of care: People who are dependent on help in everyday life.
  • Decubitus: Pressure ulcers from lying or sitting for long periods of time.
  • level-of-care: Classification of care needs for financial support.
  • Validation: method that acknowledges and validates feelings of people with dementia.
  • Palliative care: Care to improve the quality of life of seriously ill people.

 

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