77 PLANNING FOR THE UNEXPECTED Keep a written journal of current care needs. When kept up to date, this journal can benefit you as the caregiver, others who may need to step in to help with care, and the medical team involved in emergency care. Back up support. Though you may not receive the support of others on a regular basis, having a backup plan in the event of an emergency is essential. Think about enlisting a care agency before an emergency arises, even if you only use it once in a while. The process can take time, and it’s better to be enrolled in a program and add hours of care as needed. Talk about a backup plan with family or friends who are willing to provide care or other assistance during an emergency. Know your options. Because care needs can change, sometimes suddenly, research a number of care options before you need them. If possible, involve the person you care for in choosing options for the future. Having this knowledge before a crisis will help them receive the best quality care available and will help lower your own stress in an already stressful situation. Prepare for common emergencies. Depending on the disability or health issue of the person you support, ask the health care team about likely emergency situations and make a plan for what to do if these common issues happen. Keep an information folder in a safe and known place. Make sure the information on the following pages is readily available to first responders and to you. It’s important to have a file for both the person you support and yourself.
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