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Things you will need. Google Search
Topic: Caregiving Supplies
Topic: Caregiving Equipment
As a general rule, caregiving is required when an individual cannot fully perform the normal everyday activities of life. If you are going to make up for a patient's lack of certain abilities, you will need to draw from a whole array of items to get by.

- - Supplies

In tending to a loved one on a regular basis, as a primary or secondary caregiver, you will need to use a variety of soft goods and personal care items in your efforts. Here is a list of some common items:

CLEANING SUPPLIES
Disinfectant Spray - Sanitizing Wipes - Tissues - Paper Towels - Sponges - Towels and Rags - Trash Bags - Hand Soap - Dish Soap - Laundry Detergent

MEDICAL SUPPLIES
Pain Killers - Decongestants - Laxatives - Antacids - Bandages and Gauze - Antiseptic Ointments - Latex Gloves - Face Masks

CLOTHING SUPPLIES
Absorbant Underwear - Bibs - Socks - Grippy Socks - Slippers - T-shirts - Sweat Pants and Shirt - Pajamas - Nightgown - Robe - Anti-Strip Suit - Light Jacket

HYGIENE SUPPLIES
Mouthwash - Shampoo - Deodorant - Lip Balm - Skin Moisturizer - Absorbant Pads

OTHER SUPPLIES
Binder - Small Notebook - Calendar - Pens and Markers

Now, when you travel and take your patient away from their home base, say, to a store, restaurant, or distant location, you are going to need a TRAVEL KIT for the trunk of your vehicle. Believe me, you are going to need this.

TRAVEL KIT
Plastic Tub or Bin - Absorbant Pads - Absorbant Briefs - Underwear - Shirt and Pants - Light Jacket - Shoes and Socks - Hat or Cap - Sanitary Wipes - Paper Towels - A Towel or Rag - Trash Bags - Latex Gloves - Bottled Water - Plastic Cups - Snacks - Pain Killers - Bandages - Sun Block Lotion - Bug Spray - Utility Knife and Scissors - Work Gloves - Flashlight

- - Equipment

Depending on the situation, you may wish to take advantage of various hard goods and devices to make your client's life better.

ITEMS FOR MOBILITY
Cane - Crutches - Rigid Walker - Wheeled Walker - Transfer Wheelchair - Human Powered Wheelchair - Motorized Wheelchair - Scooter - Wheelchair Accessable Van

BATHROOM ITEMS
Raised Toilet Seat - Portible Toilet - Hand Grip Bars - Shower Seat - Shower Transfer Bench - Walk-in Bathtub or Shower

SITTING & SLEEPING ITEMS
Recliner Chair - Motorized Recliner Chair - Specialty Wheelchair - Adjustable Bed - Hospital Bed - TV Tray - Over-the-bed Rolling Table - Pillows - Blankets

ITEMS FOR DINING
Plastic and Disposable Plates - Eating Utensils - Baby Sippy Cups - Plastic Cups

PERSONAL ITEMS
Eyeglasses - Sunglasses - Hearing Aid - Dentures

ITEMS FOR GROOMING
Toothbrush - Combs and Hairbrushes - Hairdryer - Disposable Razors - Electric Razor - Nail Trimmer - Tweezers

ITEMS FOR CLEANING
Mop - Rags and Towels - Scrub Brush - Vacuum Cleaner

ITEMS FOR HEALTH
Thermometer - Blood Pressure Cuff - Pill Box - Pill Splitter and Crusher

ITEMS FOR SECURITY
Baby Video Monitor - Object Tracker - Fall Detector

ITEMS FOR ENTERTAINMENT
Television - Radio - DVD Player - Computer - Books and Magazines - Games and Puzzles - Hobby Supplies

OTHER ITEMS
Backpack or Bag - Plastic Tubs - Plastic storage bags

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Here are some online sources of home care supplies and equipment:

Allegro Medical
Avacare

CVS - CVS 2 - CVS 3
Target
Walgreens
Walmart

Many home health supplies are sold in local stores. To find one near you, simply Google "Home Care Equipment"

I have found that this free book from the Parkinson's Foundation is a good place to start when it comes to the greater issues of care-giving.

Order here.


Disclaimer:

This site contains the author's personal opinions and stories, as well as links to various care-giving related websites that may be helpful.

It is not meant to convey official medical advice. Please consult a licensed medical professional to determine what potential actions are right for your situation.