Caregiving
Caring for someone with the flu can be tiring and difficult, especially if you have other commitments including a job and additional family members depending on you. But you are not alone.
Caring for someone with the flu:
If you are caring for a loved one with the flu, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and others.
- Reduce the spread of flu by getting your seasonal flu shot. Based on current CDC guidance, people caring for children under six months of age are being considered for priority status to receive the H1N1 flu shot.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Disinfect door knobs, toys, handles and surfaces that are commonly touched.
- Take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest, eating healthy and exercising.
For more tips, download this checklist or contact your local Red Cross chapter.
Red Cross caregiving programs teach people how to care for others while taking care of themselves.
Family Caregiving Reference Guide & DVD Set
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| WINNER: 2008 Mom's Choice Award; 2008 Caregiver Friendly Award (Today's Caregiver Magazine) |
Family Caregiving is a quick reference guide with a companion DVD for individuals helping to care for an elderly or chronically ill loved one. However, many of the topics covered also apply to caring for people with the flu. You’ll learn basic caregiving skills, as well as how to reduce stress and balance the demands of work and home. The guide includes charts for recording vital signs and medications, as well as a tri-fold Emergency Contact Card to keep with a loved one in case of an emergency.
If you are interested in purchasing this book and DVD set, please contact your local chapter by typing your zip code into the box on the right hand side of the page or visit StayWell for pricing and ordering information.
Additional Resources
- Flu Checklist (pdf) (English | Spanish)
- Taking Care of People with the Flu (pdf) (English | Spanish)
- Family Preparedness Fact Sheet for Pandemic Flu (pdf) (English | Spanish)
- Pandemic Flu: Coping and Emotional Well Being (pdf)
