Organizational Tools
My Caregiver Journal
The My Caregiver Journal (PDF) is designed to help you keep things in order when it comes to the member’s care. You can use the journal at doctor visits. You can also use it to keep track of important information and daily routines, such as:
- Medical history
- Medication list
- Contact information for the primary care physician and other providers
- Emergency contact information
- Copies of lab and radiology results
- Hospital discharge information
- Power of Attorney
- Advance directives
- Allergies
- Doctor visit checklist
Contact California Health & Wellness Member Services at 1-877-658-0305 (TTY: 711) and ask for Case Management to get your own print copy of the My Caregiver Journal.
- Office Visit Checklist (PDF)
- Medical History Form (PDF)
- National Caregivers Library Caregiver’s Document Organizer (PDF)
Planning
Take some time to plan to help make your caregiving simpler. Create a daily schedule for the person you are caring for to help form routines. It can also allow you to leave some time to care for yourself.
It may take some time to figure out what works best for you and the person you are caring for. Some people need a strict schedule to follow each week. Others prefer a simple list of items to do each day.
Here are some items you may want to include:
- Daily or weekly chores
- Meal times or plans
- Medication schedule
- Personal care
- Exercise
- Social events
- Appointments
- Reminders to order supplies or refill prescriptions
Dementia and Alzheimer's Specific Tools
If you are caring for someone living with dementia, you may need additional resources to help you day-to-day.
It may become hard for your loved one to get around their home. Using labels in the home can act as a guide. Color-coded labels (PDF) with pictures can help if reading becomes a challenge.