The Importance of Staying Hydrated and Cool for Seniors

Seniors are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses. On hot days, their bodies may struggle to regulate temperature due to reduced blood flow to the skin and a diminished ability to sweat. Certain medications—such as antidepressants or diuretics—can further increase this risk, as they may interfere with the body’s ability to manage its internal temperature. 

Moreover, seniors often don’t feel thirsty as readily, which can lead to inadequate fluid intake. Chronic conditions, such as incontinence, might cause some to avoid drinking water. Dehydration in seniors can often go unnoticed—mistaken for lethargy, confusion, or symptoms of existing medical conditions.

Opt for water-rich, low-sodium foods such as soups and stews 

Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon and celery

Limit dehydrating drinks such as alcohol and coffee 

Add natural flavour to water using fruits (e.g., lemon, cucumber) or dilute sports drinks for taste

Encouraging water intake as part of the senior's daily routine

Using a cup or bottle with measurement markings to track daily water consumption

Serving meals with soups or beverages (e.g., juice)

Chilling water in the fridge before serving it

Contrary to common belief, cold water does not "shock" the body or pose long-term health risks. In fact, it can effectively reduce body temperature and help relieve heat stress. 

To stay cool, seniors can adapt their activities and clothing accordingly:

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing made from cotton or other moisture-wicking fabrics

Take a shower at room temperature or apply cool cloths to pulse points (e.g. neck, wrists, etc.) to help lower body temperature

Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a cool indoor environment

Avoid outdoor activities or exercise during the hottest parts of the day—opt for early morning or evening outings, or do light indoor exercises instead

In Singapore’s hot and humid climate, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to ensure seniors remain safe and comfortable. By being mindful of hydration, temperature regulation, and daily activities, even small changes in routine can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and improve overall well-being.

In Singapore's year-round heat and humidity, seniors require extra care to stay cool and comfortable. As they are more vulnerable to dehydration and heat stress, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses and other health compilations. This article shares key tips for seniors living in tropical climates and offers strategies for caregivers on helping them stay safe, comfortable, and well-hydrated. 

Tips for Seniors to Stay Cool and Hydrated during Hot Weather

How Daily Affirmations Reduce Caregiver Stress

It’s normal to feel like affirmations are awkward or that you’re not being truthful with yourself. But don’t worry—this is a common experience! Over time, repeating these affirmations can help shift your mindset, gradually rewiring negative thought patterns into positive ones.

Remember, you chose these affirmations for a reason—they resonate with you and reflect a belief you wish to embrace, even if it doesn’t feel true just yet. By practicing them consistently, you’re silencing that inner critic and reinforcing your worth as a caregiver.

1. I am as important as my care receiver 

It’s common for caregivers to feel like they must put their care receiver’s needs ahead of their own, even at the cost of their happiness. By telling yourself that your well-being matters, you can establish boundaries and prioritise self-care without guilt.

3. I accept the changes in my care receiver

When a care receiver’s condition changes unexpectedly or doesn’t seem to improve, their self-confidence can suffer. This is especially common if their condition limits their independence or forces them into new routines, such as being confined to home or hospitalized. This affirmation helps you accept that these physical changes often come with psychological effects, like withdrawal or frustration, and that these shifts are not something you’re responsible for.

4. My efforts are meaningful and make a difference in the life of my care receiver

6. I am competent and capable at caregiving

7. There are no perfect caregivers, and I am enough

These affirmations encourage you to be kind to yourself when mistakes happen and to remind you of your abilities as a caregiver. Even if it feels like caregiving was something you were thrust into, these affirmations help you regain a sense of control and confidence in the good work you’re doing.

The Power of Positive Affirmations in Caregiving

Caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding, but positive affirmations are a simple, effective tool method to reduce caregiver burnout and promote emotional resilience.

Start each day with these affirmations to remind yourself that your role is valuable, your well-being matters, and you are more than enough. By prioritising self-care and mental wellness, you’ll not only feel more confident but also provide even better care for your loved one.

As a caregiver, it’s easy to forget your own needs while focusing on your care receiver's. Affirmations help rebuild your confidence and calm your mind when worries arise. For example, if you're feeling uncertain about your caregiving abilities, repeating affirmations like “I am capable” or “I am doing my best” can help reframe negative thoughts and boost resilience.  

8 Powerful Affirmations to Boost Confidence and Prevent Burnout

Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chicken pox. After contracting chickenpox, the virus stays in the body and can eventually reactivate later in life. Those who have had chickenpox before may therefore be at risk of shingles down the road, especially past the age of 50.

Manifests as a painful, itchy rash, often on one side of the body or face

Starts as small red dots that develop into fluid-filled blisters, which usually scab over within a week.

In most cases, shingles clears up naturally in 2-4 weeks

Complications arising from shingles include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation) and hearing loss

The most common complication is long-term nerve pain

While chickenpox is highly contagious - spreading via blisters, saliva or mucus of those infected - shingles is not passed from person to person. However, a person who has never had chickenpox can contract chickenpox from someone who has shingles. 

Common symptoms for the two include fever and headaches. Chickenpox usually presents with bumps that turn into fluid-filled blisters, which eventually scab and fall off. In contrast, a shingles rash presents with red patches and painful blisters, and usually affects one side of the body in a band or strip-like pattern corresponding to the skin nerve that the virus is affecting.

A healthy lifestyle, with regular exercise and good nutrition, will strengthen the immune system and prevent one from contracting shingles.

Antivirals should be started as soon as possible, and doing so within 48 hours of the symptoms appearing would be best. This can help to reduce the severity of symptoms, especially their accompanying pain. Painkillers may also help to relieve some of the pain. Other treatments may include creams or lotions to help relieve itching, cool compresses, steroids and, in some cases, antidepressants and anticonvulsants.

For adults, shingles vaccinations are highly recommended for those aged 50 and above, as well as individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems. Children should also be vaccinated against chickenpox.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has shingles, do consult a medical professional early for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, as early intervention can minimise symptoms and prevent complications.

Article reviewed by Dr Kenneth Koh Eu Min, Senior Medical Director, Co-founder, 

Shingles is a painful and itchy condition that has been on the rise, particularly among the ageing population in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Weakened immune systems have contributed to this increase. A 2022 study conducted by pharmaceutical giant GSK revealed that individuals aged 50 or older who contracted COVID-19 were 15% more likely to develop shingles compared to those who had not contracted the virus.

What You Should Know About Shingles and How to Care for Them 

1. “Why don’t you just tell them nicely?”

Communicating with a care receiver who has dementia, hearing impairments, or other health conditions is often not as simple as "telling them nicely”. Caregivers may need to adapt their language or approach based on the individual’s needs and condition.

What to say: “Sometimes it’s not about how nicely I say things – it’s about saying things in a way they can understand. I might be raising my voice, but they wouldn’t be able to hear me otherwise.”

2. “You should give in to them/give them what they want”

Sometimes, relatives might suggest giving the care receiver what they ask for, even if it’s not in their best interest. This can be harmful, especially if the care receiver has dietary restrictions or medical conditions. For example, a care receiver may want a sugary drink that could worsen their health.

What to say: “I need to balance what they want with what’s best for their health. While one drink might not seem like much, it could put unnecessary strain on their body, and I’d rather keep them safe.”

3. “Why don’t you just help them do it?”

This comment might come from a place of wanting to simplify the process, but it overlooks the importance of encouraging the care receiver's independence. While it may seem simpler to assist with tasks, caregivers often aim to strike a balance between support and autonomy.

What to say: “I encourage them to do as much as they can for their own well-being, whether it’s for their physical or cognitive stimulation. I help when they need it, but encouraging their independence is better for them in the long run.”

4. “You used to be able to do this before you became a caregiver”

When someone becomes a caregiver, their role changes, and so do their physical and emotional capacities. It’s common for new caregivers to struggle with maintaining the same standards of cleanliness or efficiency they once had.

What to say: “Becoming a caregiver has changed my routine and energy levels. I sleep much less now, for example. It's a big adjustment, and I’m doing my best to manage it.”

5. “If you think this is hard, wait till you have a child/It’s like having a child”

While raising a child and caregiving share some similarities, they are fundamentally different. Caregiving often involves managing medical care, monitoring emergencies, and providing emotional support to an adult who may have complex health needs.

What to say: “I understand that raising a child is challenging, but caregiving has unique dynamics. It’s not just about physical tasks; it’s also managing health, medications, health crises, and sometimes even a person’s mood or behaviour. It's a different kind of responsibility.”

Festive seasons like Chinese New Year are a chance for families to come together, and they also present opportunities to foster greater understanding about caregiving. By addressing misconceptions thoughtfully, caregivers can help their relatives understand the complexities of their role and reduce unnecessary pressure.

Here are five common misconceptions about caregiving, along with suggestions for how caregivers can thoughtfully address them during family gatherings. 

Top 5 Misconceptions About Caregiving (and How to Address Them)

For seniors, getting in and out of bed without support can increase the risk of falls. Bed rails provide stability and security, making it easier for seniors to get in and out of bed safely while preventing accidental falls.

Additionally, bed rails make it easier for seniors to adjust their sleeping positions more independently, improving both comfort and quality of rest. For caregivers, these rails reduce the need for constant monitoring, creating a safer and more restful sleep environment.

Navigating the home in the dark can be risky for seniors, especially when locating light switches becomes a challenge. Motion sensor lights provide an automatic, hands-free lighting solution by illuminating hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms when motion is detected. These lights significantly reduce the risk of falls and accidents at night while also providing peace of mind for caregivers who can monitor nighttime movements more effectively. With motion sensor lights, seniors can move about their homes confidently and safely, even in the dark.

Nail cutting might pose as a challenge for those with limited vision or dexterity, and asking for help might feel embarrassing for some seniors. A nail clipper with a magnifier provides a clearer view of one's nails, allowing for more accurate trimming. This added precision ensures safer grooming, reducing the risk of cuts or injury. In addition to promoting nail health, it allows seniors to maintain their dignity by enabling them to care for themselves with greater independence and confidence.

A wireless alarm pager offers seniors a convenient way to stay connected with their caregivers or family members. With its portable design and user-friendly functionality, the device allows seniors to quickly alert others with a simple push of a button. This is especially beneficial in case of emergencies or when immediate assistance is needed. By giving seniors the ability to request help at any moment, this alarm pager promotes both safety and independence, offering reassurance to both seniors and their caregivers.

Anti-tremor cutlery is specially designed to assist seniors with hand tremors, offering a stable and dignified eating experience. These utensils feature unique stabilizing features that reduce the effects of shaky hands, making it easier to eat without spilling food. This added stability helps seniors maintain independence at the table and encourages seniors to participate in mealtimes confidently, without the embarrassment of spills or the need for constant caregiver intervention.

By making everyday tasks more manageable and reducing the risk of accidents, these products promote both the physical safety and emotional well-being of seniors. Incorporating these items into one’s daily life can help seniors navigate their environment with confidence; fostering a safe, empowering, and independent lifestyle.

In this article, we’ll explore five essential products that can help streamline caregiving tasks, making daily routines easier for both seniors and their caregivers. These items offer valuable support, reduce the risk of accidents, and help caregivers manage daily tasks with confidence and ease. 

5 Must-Have Tools to Keep Seniors Safe and Independent

An inflatable shower sink provides significant benefits for seniors with limited mobility, especially those who are bedridden. This portable, shallow tub allows seniors to receive a bath while remaining in the comfort of their own bed, eliminating the need to move to a traditional bathtub or shower. After use, caregivers can easily wash the tub, ensuring that it remains hygienic for the next bath. This detachable design minimises physical strain for both the caregiver and the senior, enabling a safer and more dignified bathing experience.

A toilet seat riser is a simple and effective addition to any bathroom, especially for seniors with mobility challenges. The raised seat attaches securely to the existing toilet, adding extra height to reduce the effort required to sit down and stand up. This simple modification alleviates the pain and strain associated with bending too low, making it an excellent choice for seniors with joint problems or arthritis. By reducing physical effort during toileting, toilet seat risers help prevent falls and injuries, promoting greater comfort and safety. 

Showering can often be a source of anxiety for seniors due to concerns about slipping. A bathtub or shower mat provides a stable, non-slip surface, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents. Mats with strong suction cups keep them securely in place, ensuring they don’t shift during use. With these mats, seniors can feel more confident during showers, which can help ease anxiety about bathing and promote greater independence.

Incorporating bathroom safety products into one’s home is an easy and effective way to support seniors in living independently and comfortably. From inflatable shower sinks to non-slip mats, these products improve safety, reduce physical strain, and enhance confidence. Want to learn more about managing toileting challenges? Explore our guide 

In this article, we will explore three useful products that can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries. These products improve mobility and reduce the risk of accidents, helping seniors maintain their independence while ensuring safety in the bathroom. 

Top 3 Must-Have Bathroom Items for Safer and Easier Senior Care 

Her grandmother lives at home with the family, and Charlotte is often the one bringing her for her appointments as she has the most flexible schedule. These simple essentials help Charlotte make sure her grandmother is comfortable and cared for, and this video will give you a better idea of what caregiving is like on a personal level!

Want a packing list to help you keep track of everything you should bring? Download this!


Curious about what a caregiver keeps in their bag? Meet Charlotte, a caregiver for her grandmother, who recently suffered a stroke. In this video, she shares what she keeps in her bag when taking her grandmother to medical appointments.


What's In My Bag? (Caregiver Edition)

Common Emotions Felt When Experiencing Burnout 

Caregivers may experience a range of emotions that, if persistent, can deepen burnout and lead to emotional strain.

Anxiety: Worrying about making mistakes that could hurt your care recipient.

Frustration: Feeling unappreciated or that your care recipient refuses your help.

Guilt: Believing your own needs don’t matter and feeling bad for taking care of yourself.

Denial: Minimizing the seriousness of your care recipient’s condition.

Pessimism: Feeling that caregiving is a burden and leaves you unfulfilled.

Helplessness: Feeling alone and unsure if help is available, or that you shouldn’t ask for it.

Lack of Autonomy: Feeling like you have no control over your own life or decisions.

Want to learn more about caregiver burnout? Check out our previous article 

Now that we've identified the emotions caregivers often experience, let's explore some mindset strategies that can help manage these feelings.

It’s natural to feel frustrated or even resentful at times. Accept these emotions as valid without letting them define you. Feeling this way doesn’t make you a bad person or caregiver.

Example: If you occasionally feel angry at your care recipient, remind yourself that these feelings don’t negate the effort and love you put into caregiving.

While it’s natural to want more help or appreciation, we can't control others' actions or feelings. Instead, we can focus on what is within our control. 

If you’re feeling discouraged or inadequate, remember that it's okay to do less as long as things still get done. Be gentle with yourself.

Be honest about your abilities and set achievable goals. It’s better to prioritize what's manageable than exhaust yourself trying to be the "ideal" caregiver.

Take a moment to recognize your hard work. Every effort counts, no matter how small it may seem 

Along with adjusting your mindset, these practical steps can also make a significant difference in managing burnout.

Breaking tasks into manageable actions can make an overwhelming day feel easier. Create a to-do list and tackle it step by step. 

Make time for activities you enjoy or that hold personal meaning, whether it’s a hobby, spending time with friends, or engaging in community work. 

Remember, self-care is essential for caregivers. Set aside daily "me time" to recharge and ensure you're not constantly exhausted. 

When someone offers assistance, don’t hesitate to accept it. It’s not a weakness, but a smart way to lighten your load. Keep a list of small tasks, like errands, that can be easily delegated. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to share your struggles with trusted loved ones. For instance, you might say, "I’ve been really tired lately, could you help me by driving my grandmother to her medical checkup tomorrow so I can rest?"

Allow others to help in their own way. People are more likely to offer support when they feel trusted and valued, rather than pressured to follow rigid instructions. 

While caregiver burnout can feel overwhelming, there are ways to manage and overcome it. Through recognizing your emotions, practicing self-compassion, seeking support, and being realistic about your capacity, you can protect your well-being. Embracing these strategies will help you avoid burnout and ensure you can continue providing the best care for your loved ones. 

In this article, we will explore effective strategies to prevent and manage burnout, helping you to find ways to regain a sense of balance.  

Caring for the Caregiver: Key Strategies to Combat Burnout

Living with the care recipient or providing round-the-clock care

Lack of caregiving knowledge or professional guidance

Feeling forced into caregiving with no option for relief

Poor coping mechanisms or stress management strategies

When does stress turn into burnout? Stress feels like constant worry, but burnout feels like constant exhaustion—leaving you too drained to feel anything beyond hopelessness.

Recognising the signs early is crucial. Look out for: 

Losing a sense of meaning or fulfillment in caregiving

Avoiding loved ones or isolating yourself

Turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like substance use or overspending 

Apart from these signs, caregivers experiencing burnout also tend to feel a significant increase in negative emotions: towards themselves, their care recipient, and even loved ones around them.

Caregiving is a rewarding but demanding role. It’s okay to feel exhausted or frustrated at times. Remember, it's okay to acknowledge when you're feeling overwhelmed—your well-being matters too. By recognising burnout and taking proactive steps, you ensure the best care for yourself and your loved one.

If you would like to learn how to manage these emotions, check out some tips on mindset strategies that can help you overcome burnout 

Burnout occurs when stress becomes chronic exhaustion.  As caregivers, prioritising self-care might feel undeserved or difficult, but it’s essential.  Think of it as putting on our own life jacket before helping others – we must care for our well-being first to provide the best care for our loved ones.  

Feeling Drained? Understanding Caregiver Burnout and Its Signs 

A thoughtful gift for any caregiver is a set of sentimental coupons that offer a helping hand when they need it most. Examples could include coupons for "One free meal delivery," "Two hours of pet sitting," or "An afternoon off while I take over caregiving duties." These coupons can be redeemed for favors like running errands, preparing meals, or offering to take over caregiving duties/watch over the care receiver for a few hours. It’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation and support, giving the caregiver a chance to rest while knowing they have a helping hand whenever needed.

A shopping trolley bag is an ideal gift for caregivers who juggle multiple tasks throughout the day. It allows them to carry heavy or bulky items like groceries, medical equipment, or care supplies with ease, reducing physical strain and providing both convenience and comfort during long days of caregiving. Look for sturdy designs with smooth wheels and lightweight materials to ensure maximum ease of use.

A neck and shoulder massage machine makes a wonderful and practical gift for caregivers who often put their own needs aside. It offers targeted relief from muscle tension and soreness, helping them relax after a long day of work. This thoughtful gesture reminds caregivers that their comfort and well-being matter just as much as those they care for.

A vacuum mop is a practical and efficient tool that can greatly benefit caregivers, especially those with limited time. It combines the convenience of a vacuum and a mop in one device, allowing caregivers to quickly clean up dust, dirt, and spills without the need for multiple steps or tools. This efficiency is especially beneficial for caregivers with a busy schedule, as it minimizes the effort required for cleaning and enables them to focus more on providing care. 

Caregivers often find themselves on the go, whether running errands, caring for a loved one, or managing household tasks. A high-quality thermos keeps beverages hot or cold for hours, allowing caregivers to enjoy a refreshing drink whenever they need a break, without worrying about their beverage losing temperature. This gift is also useful for caregivers who focus on home caregiving, as it makes it easy for caregivers to keep their favorite beverages with them and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Caregivers often juggle multiple responsibilities, so choosing a gift that demonstrates care in a way that directly addresses their needs shows that you understand the challenges they face and are committed to supporting their well-being. Gifts that combine usefulness with care—like a thermos for hydration or a vacuum mop for easy cleaning—can truly make a positive difference in their daily life. Ultimately, the best gifts are those that offer convenience, comfort, and a little extra help in their busy routines.

Here, we’ve compiled five thoughtful and practical gift ideas that not only express gratitude but also support a caregiver’s daily efforts. 

5 Practical Gifts That Will Make Any Caregiver Feel Appreciated

Caregivers should ensure that care receivers are warmly attired:

Opt for multiple thin layers of clothing rather than a single thick one for ease of mobility and to trap more heat.

If it is raining outside, the care receiver can wear a waterproof coat to prevent getting wet.

If their clothes get wet in the rain, change them into dry clothes immediately to prevent chilling.

When indoors or preparing for sleep, they can wear socks and use blankets to stay warm.

Diet and exercise also play a role in keeping warm:

Ensure the care receiver eats enough food to maintain their body weight.

Encourage them to drink warm liquids such as tea or warm water and to eat hot meals or snacks throughout the day. For example, eating hot soup is preferred over cold sandwiches.

Limit their alcohol intake as alcoholic drinks can cause them to lose body heat.

If they have cold hands and feet, consider using heat pads, wearing gloves, and putting on socks to warm them up.

Even indoors, care receivers should stay active and move around to generate body heat. Simple stretches or walking around the house can be helpful.

Flu Prevention for Seniors in Cold Weather

Cold weather can weaken their immune system, so caregivers should take precautions to prevent their care receivers from catching the flu.

Encourage them to get their annual flu shot and help schedule it if needed.

Remind them to wash their hands regularly

Increase their intake of Vitamin C, either through food or supplements, to boost their immunity.

Avoid large crowds when going out to reduce exposure to potential flu viruses.

Certain medical concerns might cause care recipients to be more vulnerable during these periods of cold weather. For example, Parkinson’s disease and arthritis can make it challenging for the care recipient in putting on more clothes or using a blanket. Diabetes and thyroid issues may impair their ability to regulate body temperature. In such cases, caregivers should take extra steps to ensure their loved ones stay warm and comfortable.

In conclusion, while cold weather in Singapore is rare, it is important to stay vigilant when these cooler periods arise, especially when caring for seniors. By ensuring proper attire, adjusting diet and exercise routines, and taking preventive measures, caregivers can help their loved ones stay warm, comfortable, and healthy. Remember, a little extra care can make a big difference in keeping our elderly safe and secure.

While Singapore is generally hot and humid, we do experience occasional cold spells that can pose health risks for seniors. During these cooler periods, caregivers must take extra precautions to ensure the well-being of elderly care recipients. Helping our elderly loved ones stay warm protects their health and helps them feel secure and cared for. This includes helping their care receivers keep warm, adjusting their diet and exercise routines, and flu prevention measures.  

Cold Weather Tips for Seniors: How Caregivers Can Keep Elderly Safe and Warm

Fall and Injury Prevention Tips for Seniors During Rainy Weather

With frequent wet weather, slipping and falling becomes a greater safety concern. To prevent any injuries, caregivers can:

Dress their care receiver in traction-enhancing footwear with non-slip soles. Avoid high heels or uneven footwear.

Dry the wheels or tips of their care receiver’s walking aids before entering the home.

If their care receiver uses a cane, replace the rubber tip before it is worn smooth.

Keep the home entryway clear of clutter to prevent tripping hazards.

Place a small table or shelf near the door for loose items, reducing the risk of falling while unlocking the door or entering.

When outdoors, use railings and avoid dimly lit areas to avoid slipping on wet pavements.

Managing Joint Pain in Seniors During Rainy Weather

Wet and cold weather can aggravate joint pain for seniors, especially for those with arthritis or other joint issues. Prolonged inactivity may lead to stiffness and discomfort. To help alleviate these problems, caregivers should encourage seniors to:

Engage in light exercises such as stretching or taking short walks around their neighborhood parks or void decks.

Maintain regular physical activity to reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and boost their emotional well-being.

Regular movement keeps seniors physically active and helps promote a healthy lifestyle in a community-focused environment.

Wet weather can sometimes lead to flooding, power outages, or transportation delays, particularly during monsoon seasons. Caregivers should have an emergency plan in place:

Emergency contacts: Ensure the senior has a list of emergency contacts (including family members, neighbors, and healthcare providers) that is easily accessible.

First aid kit: Keep a first aid kit stocked and within easy reach.

Emergency essentials: Ensure the senior has access to essential items, like medications, water, and flashlights, in case of power outages or emergencies.

Additional Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe During Wet Weather

Lastly, caregivers can monitor weather forecasts to stay informed about when to stay indoors. If it is raining or cold outside, consider utilising delivery services for prescriptions, groceries, and other essentials to ensure that elderly care recipients can remain safely at home.

If the care receivers live alone, maintain regular communication and visit them frequently, especially during stormy weather. If you do not live nearby, ask family members, friends, neighbours, volunteers, or social services to check in and help ensure the safety of your loved ones.

Caregivers should ensure care receivers stay alert and take preventive measures to avoid accidents. This includes being cautious of wet surfaces to prevent them from slipping and injuring themselves.  

Injury Prevention Tips During Wet Weather 

Annie assists Janet, who is in a wheelchair to move in and out of an elevator. She wheels her mother down the corridor slowly and always has at least one hand on the wheelchair grip at all times.

Getting In and Out of an Elevator

Aminah assists her brother Ahmad in moving from the bed to his wheelchair through the application of comfortable and safe methods, including the angling of the wheelchair against the bed and ensuring the wheels are locked

Transferring from Bed to Wheelchair

Janet demonstrates a list of exercises ranging from Head-to-Toe that help improve a person’s mobility levels. The exercises shown are light in nature, with an exception for one exercise that is not suitable for hip replacement surgery patients.

Range of Motion Exercises

Aminah assists Ahmad in recognising and preventing bedsores by looking for them on specific parts of the body, how to identify them correctly, adding paddings to his bed/wheelchair for comfort and applying lotion to prevent dry skin.

Recognising & Preventing Bedsores

Aminah assists Ahmad in dressing up his superficial wounds correctly by recognising infected wounds, making preparations for the wound dressing and techniques in applying the dressing to the wound.

Care for Superficial Wounds

Annie assists her mother Janet in using a quadstick to move about with greater ease and comfort. Depending on the situation, the assisted methods can apply to walking up & down the stairs, crossing over small gaps and sitting down.

Walking with a Quadstick

Annie assists her mother in having a meal properly using eating utensils using three different methods, depending on the situation. The methods used are known as Hand-Over-Hand, Hand-Under-Hand and Direct Hand.

Assisted Oral Feeding 

Aminah is a caregiver who assists her brother Ahmad, who is wheelchair bound in taking a shower using methods that range from removing old garments, putting on a new pair, taking a shower, drying up and cleaning.

Assisted Full Shower 

In this article, we’ll look at how a caregiver can assist a care receiver who needs moderate assistance in their use of a wheelchair. For wheelchair users who can independently use a wheelchair, check out 

. For wheelchair users who need minimal assistance, read 


Let’s take the example of a care receiver with right-sided weakness:

Adjust your position lower to the care receiver’s eye level and introduce yourself.

Inform the person that you need them to turn towards you so that you can check how well they are.

Position the wheelchair at their strong side (left in this case) at an angle of 45 degrees from the bed.

Ensure that the wheelchair wheels are locked.

Ensure that the wheelchair’s wheels are locked.

A wheelchair can be part of short-term recovery for some and a lifelong companion for others. Either way, it’s never fun. But the right kind of care can make things a little less depressing. The care needed can be a bit different depending on whether the wheelchair user is largely independent, needs minimal assistance, or needs moderate assistance.

Better Health, Better Life 2025 – A HMI Cares Initiative

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