Colorado Caregiver Network

We are pleased to present another article from author and caregiving authority June Duncan.  Difficulties with vision is a common problem for aging adults.  In this article you will learn some interesting and straight forward ways that improved lighting can make your home environment safer and more pleasing.

Image courtesy of Pixabay

 If you are like many people, you would like to remain in your home as you grow older. Making accommodations for aging eyes can go a long way toward keeping you safe and comfortable. Here are some of the ways to use enhanced lighting for seniors who wish to age in place.

 Fading Eyesight Is Normal

 Aging and vision loss go hand-in-hand. According to some studies, by the time most people enter their fourth decade, there is a noticeable decline in vision. You might need reading glasses, have difficulty distinguishing colors, or you might notice glare more than you used to. Seniors are also more inclined to have other vision-related issues, such as floaters, dry eyes, or tearing. By making adjustments in the quality of in-home lighting, you can increase safety, efficiency, and comfort; ensure more independence; and decrease risk for falls.  

 Increase Your Options

 One of the best ways to help you stay more comfortable in your home as vision issues arise is by creating flexibility in your rooms. As Progress Lighting points out, by layering your lights, you can adjust your environment to your task. For instance, ambient lighting combined with task lighting allows you to navigate through a room comfortably, then perform a specific chore in brighter light. Keep in mind that it’s important to keep your electrical fixtures and wiring well-maintained, and it’s best to hire a professional to address issues or to install new fixtures.  

 Rooms and Ideas

 Different rooms are often most comfortable with different kinds of lighting. Here are some suggestions for matching fixtures with particular spaces:

 Kitchen. A ceiling fixture with a dimmer switch allows you to use the room comfortably for gatherings and meals, and under-cabinet task lighting helps with meal preparation.  Also, consider overhead track lighting that can brighten specific work areas.

Bathroom. Recessed lighting brightens small or dim areas, and track lighting in strips provides optimal, even brightness over mirrors. Opt for frosted shades to soften the glow. All lights should be rated for damp areas.  

 Bedrooms. Lamps on nightstands or wall-mounted with arms allow for reading in bed, and ambient lighting helps with personal tasks such as dressing and hygiene. Consider nightlights for safe maneuvering in the dark.

 Living room. A combination of ambient, accent, and task lighting is usually appropriate in a living room, with the task lighting in areas where people lounge for reading, playing games, doing homework, or other pursuits.

 Throughout the home. There are some lighting recommendations which can be applied throughout your home. Make sure there is ample ambient light, and avoid bare bulbs since they can cause glare. Steer clear of dramatic contrasts between spaces, since going from a very bright area to a very dark space can be hazardous. Choose contrasting colors to help with shape perception. Take advantage of sunlight as much as possible by eliminating window coverings wherever you can.

 Bulbs Matter

 In addition to choosing the right fixtures, you should also put some thought into the selection of your light bulbs, as temperature and brightness can affect your performance and comfort during certain tasks and activities. As an example, warm, dim lighting is relaxing and appropriate for your bedroom, while in a workspace like your kitchen or office, brighter, cooler bulbs can improve energy levels. Lowes points out that you can also employ technology for enhancing your home’s lighting, such as with smart bulbs. You can use your phone to make alterations in the lighting of your rooms, such as brightness and bulb color.  

Waning eyesight can be challenging, but a few smart, simple adjustments in lighting can help seniors stay safe in their homes. Make a careful assessment of where improvements could be made. Well-chosen bulbs and fixtures can make a difference in staying safe and aging in place.

June Duncan, is the author of The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers.
june@riseupforcaregivers.org
riseupforcaregivers.org

Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the cells that form the outer lining of the lungs and inner lining of the chest cavities. It is the most common type of asbestos-related cancer. Clinical trials offer access to new treatments such as immunotherapy. All types of mesothelioma are named after the location where they form.
It usually takes from 20 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop after a person’s first exposure to asbestos. Because of this latency period, the disease usually affects people older than 75.
Most patients are men because they were the majority of the workforce in professions, including heavy industry and construction, where asbestos exposure historically occurred.
Initial symptoms of malignant pleural mesothelioma include chest pain and shortness of breath. You may experience no symptoms at all in the early stages of the cancer’s progression.
The life expectancy of someone with pleural mesothelioma is often less than 18 months, but it depends on many factors.
Some patients live much longer with treatment. Combining several treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, has helped people live for years after being diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma. Clinical trials offer access to new treatments such as immunotherapy.

You can find out more information about Mesothelioma, treatment options, help for veterans, and legal options from the Mesothelioma Center (asbestos.com/mesothelioma/pleural/) or call toll free at: (855) 619-6634

In this article we feature a new writer on our blog, Harry Cline. Harry is creator of NewCaregiver.org and author of the upcoming book, The A-Z Home Care Handbook: Health Management How-Tos for Senior Caregivers. As a retired nursing home administrator, father of three, and caregiver to his ninety-year-old uncle, Harry knows how challenging and rewarding caregiving can be. He also understands that caregiving is often overwhelming for those just starting out. He created his website and is writing his new book to offer new caregivers everywhere help and support.

We hope you enjoy Harry’s article: “Practicing Yoga Confidently as a Senior”

Photo from Pexels

As a senior adult, you are probably set in your ways. You have lived much of your life and are confident in who you are. But don’t ignore the fact that it’s never too late to learn something new. If you’ve never tried yoga and meditation, your senior years are a perfect time to introduce a new practice into your life. Here are a few ways to get started:

What Yoga Is

At its core, yoga brings several aspects of your existence together, including your body, your breath and your mind. The actual word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj”, which means “to unite.” There is no age requirement – people of any age can benefit from uniting their bodies and minds in a relaxed state of harmony and joy. Add meditation to the mix and you can see how yoga can increase both your mental and physical well-being.

Gaining Confidence

While you may feel intimidated to join a class full of experienced participants, yoga is about working on your own body and mind, not comparing yourself to others. Focus on the present moment and don’t give thought to others. Start slowly and gently with a class for beginners to help you learn basic terminology, poses and methods. Progress will come as you consistently work; you’ll be surprised to find yourself doing poses sooner than you think.

Be Mindful

Mindfulness, or being aware of what is happening right now, in front of you, adds a mental and spiritual dimension to yoga. Start by paying attention to your breaths, the position of your body and how your body feels. You don’t want to get to the end of class and realize you don’t remember anything that happened. While all yoga includes awareness of your mind, some classes focus more on guided meditation than others. If this interests you, don’t be afraid to explore more meditation techniques.

Adapting for Seniors

Work within your comfort zone as you learn yoga. Keep checking your internal compass and focus. If you can smile and you feel comfortable, keep it up! If you’re feeling unhappiness because of discomfort or pain, something isn’t working right and you should back off until you return to a state of comfort. You don’t have to accomplish an elaborate, pretzel-like pose to do yoga. As long as you are moving with purpose and awareness of your mind and body, you are doing yoga. Your flexibility, stamina and fitness will improve over time. You don’t even have to leave your home to meditate and do yoga. Set up a calm space at home that’s quiet and relaxing.

Help for Addiction Recovery

If you are recovering from an addiction even as a senior, yoga can play a vital role in your recovery. It provides a physical practice that gives you a way to feel good without relying on a substance. Yoga also helps you connect with something bigger than yourself and empower yourself as you make progress toward healing. Cultivating mindfulness and calmness can also help ease your anxiety, reduce your cravings and quiet your mind, which are all keys to staying away from addictive behaviors.

Build Community

Yoga is a natural way to build community as you learn and grow with others. If you’re looking for a group of seniors to become a part of, a local yoga class can bring your body, mind and spirit together with others focused on the same objectives. Yoga communities tend to be inviting and non-judgmental, and you can quickly build camaraderie based on your shared experiences.

It’s never too late to start yoga. In fact, your senior years are a perfect time to show others that learning and growing never stops. Find the right class and jump right in – the benefits may just extend your golden years even further.

Author and caregiver June Duncan is back with a new article for us on the importance of taking care of yourself, the caregiver. We see it all the time where it ends up that the caregiver is the one that gets sick, sometimes in very serious ways. Paying attention to the warning signs and making adjustments to your routine can make all the difference. Read the whole article below for helpful suggestions to manage the burden of being a full time caregiver and stay healthy in the process.

Here is June’s article: “The Importance of Self-Care for Caregivers”

Photo: Unsplash

As a caregiver, you have one of the most selfless jobs on the planet. Each day requires a lot of hard work and focus, and it can be hard to remember to take care of yourself during this time. While your loved one needs your attention, it’s also important to practice self-care so that you can be the best possible caregiver. Not looking after yourself can lead to consequences such as sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, and an overall decline in health. Here are a few ways that you can treat yourself while also looking after your loved one.

Take time for fun activities

When you’re spending time as a caregiver, it’s important to take breaks and incorporate fun into your lives. This will not only improve your loved one’s well-being, but your own well-being. Try new activities or hobbies that have been on your to-do list. These don’t have to be activities that require a lot of energy. Whether it’s taking art classes or learning how to play a musical instrument, these classes can provide the healing your loved ones need to get through their treatment. The Kids & Art Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides arts workshops to children with cancer and their care circles to improve their well-being during treatment, as survivors, and in bereavement.

Manage your stress

A caregiver’s job is never easy, and it can come with stressful days. It’s all about how you view it, half-full or half-empty. Start with a positive state of mind. If you start to experience forgetfulness, sleep problems or irritability, ask yourself what’s causing you to feel stress. Is a certain task you have to complete or a disagreement you’re frustrated about?

Trying to change things that are outside of your control will just increase frustration. Instead, pay attention to what you can change, and know that small things can make a big difference. As HomeAdvisor suggests, even minor changes to your living space can go a long way toward promoting better sleep, enhancing your exercise routine, or making meal prep less of a chore.

Remember to ask for help

How often have people asked you how they can be of assistance and you’ve replied that you’re fine? Know that’s it’s ok to ask for help when you need it. Letting someone else share the workload doesn’t make you weak or a sub-par caregiver. Know that you’re not burdening anyone by asking for assistance. People generally mean it when they say they are free to help. You can find help in friends, family or community resources. Don’t wait to ask for help until you’re exhausted and overworked. Be proactive and make a list of things you need completed and find people who are willing to help. It will help you balance the tasks you need checked off and make you a better caregiver in the process.

Talk to a physician

According to Family Caregiver Alliance, 37 percent of caregivers administer medications, injections, and medical treatment to the person for whom they care. Remember to keep in contact with your patient’s physician, and ask for advice about medications and treatments. Before you go to appointments, make a list of questions you want to ask to be sure you get all of them answered.

You should also try and make these appointments to match your own needs. Go in at times that are slow, like in the morning or after lunch, to make sure you have a chance to chat with the doctor. While you’re talking to a physician, be sure to bring up your own health. If you’re feeling stressed, tired, or overwhelmed, let your physician know. They may be able to give you recommendations on how to manage your stress and improve your well-being, like adopting an exercise plan or changing your diet.

Ultimately, you are responsible for more than just your loved ones health and wellness. Not only will self-care contribute to your quality of life, it will allow you to remain in the role of caregiver longer. So think of it as part of the job, and make it a priority.

June Duncan, is the author of The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers.
June Duncan
Author and Caregiver
june@riseupforcaregivers.org
riseupforcaregivers.org

Being a caregiver is one of the most selfless roles anyone can fulfill. In many cases, it means putting someone else’s needs above your own, sacrificing your time and peace of mind, and finding higher levels of patience and understanding. It can create a sense of purpose, but it can also be very taxing and physically burdensome. The weight may even be extremely emotional, especially if the care involves a terminal condition and if no other person shares the load. Whether the role consists of providing care for a cancer patient or an ill, disabled or elderly person, the demands can drive many caregivers to use and abuse substances to cope.

Just as with anyone who abuses a particular substance, there are extreme risks involved in caregiver substance addiction. The good news is, if you’re a caregiver in need, there are also resources available that can help you and the person(s) you’re caring for.

For more information on resources to help with alcohol and drug addiction go to:

The Recovery Village

https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/resources/caregivers-substance-abuse/

In this latest article from author and caregiver June Duncan, June tells us all about the things to look for when considering a home that will be the most user friendly for aging adults.  Most experts agree that living independently in your own home is the preferred alternative as long as it is safe to do so.  Looking for a new home or making these modifications to your current home can significantly help you or your loved one stay in their own home as long as possible.

June’s article is titled:
“Find a Home That Will Be Accessible As You Age In Place“.

Photo by Pixabay

As we get older, our needs in a home change. We no longer need enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate our children or a rusty swing set in the backyard. While we may still be able to navigate stairs with ease, we know those stairs will get more difficult as we age. You might consider buying a new home that is more accommodating to your needs as you grow older.

Accessibility is becoming more available now that people are living longer and staying in their homes as they age. Services are more available to make aging in place a possibility. If you’re thinking of shopping for an accessible home, talk to your real estate agent about your needs. She will have an idea of where to look.

If you need to hire a contractor to make modifications in your new home or existing one, make sure he or she is experienced in home accessibility and understands the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. While the ADA does not enforce accessibility in homes, the ADA guidelines will make the modifications more readily accessible by all.

Here are some things to look for in an accessible home.

 An entryway that has no stairs — Climbing a bunch of stairs to get into your home is no fun when your knees hurt.

 Wide doors and hallways — If you’re ever in a wheelchair, even if it’s only temporary, you’ll appreciate this. Moving in a walker can be tough when the halls are narrow, too.

 Lots of light — If it’s not natural light, many light fixtures and lamps will help. Angie’s List advises, “Make sure hallways are lit with automatic night lights, which will assist in navigating your home in the dark.”

A walk-in shower or tub — Climbing over the side of a tub can be dangerous if you have trouble with balance. Make sure there are grab-bars installed, as well as a non-slip surface.

A raised toilet seat — You can buy a seat that will raise it to a better height or you can buy toilets made especially for accessibility. When your knees aren’t as strong, raising yourself off the toilet can become a challenge.

 Lever door knobs — Many older homes have round door knobs because that’s what we’ve always had. But doorknobs made of levers are much easier to open for those who have arthritis. Gripping and turning can be very painful, but pushing down on a lever is much easier.

A wider kitchen — Having a wider floor area in your kitchen will make wheelchairs easier to navigate. You want to be able to get in, but also be able to turn around and get out.

Lowered kitchen cabinets and counters — Having at least one part of the countertop lowered or made to be vertically movable can help those with wheelchairs. Being able to sit with your feet under the counter and work is essential to being able to use your kitchen.

Accessible appliances — Ovens can have side-opening doors, cooktops can have knobs on the front of them, freezers can be on the bottom of refrigerators, and washers and dryers can be front-loading with reachable buttons. When shopping for appliances, ask salespeople to find appliances that are ADA compliant. Many manufacturers have these available.

If you do decide to buy or create an accessible home, you’ll be more likely to live in the home longer, without need of an assisted living facility or retirement home. The added convenience and freedom your home will bring will make all the remodeling worth it. You’ll have a home in which you’re comfortable, and your family will have to worry about your safety a lot less.

June Duncan, is the author of The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers. 
June Duncan
Author and Caregiver
june@riseupforcaregivers.org
riseupforcaregivers.org

Today we have another article from June Duncan, author of the new book entitled ‘The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers’. Today’s article is:

The Best Advice for Bringing an Elderly Loved One into Your Home

by
June Duncan
Author and Caregiver
june@riseupforcaregivers.org
riseupforcaregivers.org

Moving an aging loved one into your home means a major lifestyle change for you both. Things are even more complicated if your loved one has a disability. However, with some thoughtful planning, you can make the transition go smoothly.

Image courtesy of Pixabay

Altering your abode. Chances are you are going to need to make some changes for your home to provide the safety and support your senior requires. If you’re unsure where to start, one recommendation is bringing in a specialist to do some evaluations. The AARP collaborated with other organizations to develop the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation. Working alongside an occupational therapist, these experts can assess your home and your loved one to ensure living areas provide safety and security. They then join forces with a contractor to implement changes.

Home modification do’s. As explained by The New York Times, some home modifications are straightforward and helpful to people of all ages. Your senior will likely benefit from a zero-step entry, so installing a ramp or otherwise eliminating steps will be a boon. It’s also helpful for those pushing strollers or anyone suffering even a temporary mobility concern such as walking with crutches. Contemporary grab bars are attractive and provide support to your loved one in the bathroom, and textured floors offer traction in the kitchen and bath. Kitchen counters that contrast dramatically from floor colors are wise, since aging eyes often don’t perceive depth as well. Some experts suggest installing a section of kitchen counter at a lower height so users can do food prep in a seated position. Many homeowners opt for lever-style faucets to accommodate reduced dexterity, as well as adding easier-to-reach storage and drawer-style dishwashers. Handrails provide support and reduce fears of falling, and improved lighting can help those with failing eyesight or issues with disorientation.

Home modification don’ts. According to some studies, one of the key elements in home modifications for accessibility is improving quality of life and independence of your senior. It’s important to make choices that will promote your senior’s safety but enhance the ability to remain independent, and doing so can help delay further deterioration of his or her capabilities. You don’t want changes to be overly restrictive. Make choices that promote self-sufficiency along with safety.

Making the move. Moving itself can be a big chore, especially if you and your loved one are feeling stressed about the transition. Hiring a professional moving service for both moving your senior out and into your home is a great way to reduce risks of injury, lower stress levels, and allow you the opportunity to oversee and prioritize the care of boxes coming into your home. You can even hire services that do the packing and unpacking for you. U.S. News & World Report warns there can be hidden costs involved, such as hourly fees or the number of personnel involved in the process. Ask for details, check references, and get full estimates in writing before selecting a mover. You can even save yourself some trouble and use a service such as HireAHelper, who supplies customer reviews and other resources to simplify your efforts.

Don’t burn out. As a caregiver, it’s important to manage your responsibilities in a way that keeps you from becoming overwhelmed. Some professionals advise establishing a support network and staying connected as one of your keys to preventing stress buildup. Reach out to friends and family for help with errands and tasks, and find local agencies which provide supportive services. Set realistic goals for yourself and tend to your physical needs such as getting sufficient sleep, eating properly, and exercising. Also, many caregivers benefit from engaging with a support group. You might find talking through issues with those in similar situations provides comfort.

Bringing your senior loved one into your home is a big change. When a disability is involved, the situation can feel especially complicated. Thoughtful planning is the key to making the transition go smoothly for you both.

We want to introduce you to June Duncan, author of a new and soon to be released book entitled The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers. 

Taking an excerpt from her upcoming book, June presents a great One Hour Power Routine for Caregiver Health and Wellness.

As someone who provides continuous care for an aging parent, ill spouse, or disabled child, it can be difficult to focus on your own health and happiness. But you can squeeze a few important things into your day by practicing these simple self-care techniques in between your other obligations.

Start your day without clutter. (5 minutes)

If you want to feel like you’ve accomplished something just for you, start each day by simply making your bed. It only takes a few minutes but will leave you with a sense of achievement all day. This will boost your mood and give you the encouragement to tackle other tasks. And, starting the day without mess alleviates stress, which is good for your health overall.

Get your blood pumping before you leave your bed room. (10 minutes)

You need an average of 120 minutes of moderate cardiovascular activity each week in order to keep your heart and lungs in tip-top shape. You can knock out more than half of that by starting your day with an easy, 10-minute workout you can do in your pajamas without any special equipment.

Invest in your oral hygiene. (5 Minutes)

You know you need to brush your teeth to prevent cavities, but your oral health is about more than just pearly white and fresh breath. Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body…it’s also where billions of bacteria lurk and linger. Failure to evict the dangerous germs can lead to more than just a yellow smile. Colgate’s Oral Care Center explains that establishing a dental care routine — brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash twice daily — may help reduce your chances of diabetic complications, respiratory infections, and dementia.

Plan and pack snacks that offer sustained energy. (5 Minutes)

Even if you provide care in your own home, you likely don’t take the time to sit down and eat like you should. Thankfully, your local grocery store is full of easy-to-pack snacks that provide sustained energy and won’t leave you longing for dinner. Avocados and crackers, peanut butter and banana toast, and trail mix are all quick fixes for hunger recommended by EatThis.com.

Spend a moment in the sun. (10 minutes)

The sun isn’t just a source of light. Its rays stimulate the production of Vitamin D, a vitamin responsible for healthy bones and teeth; vitamin D also boosts the immune system, according to the University of Florida. A deficit of this necessary nutrient can lead to brittle bones and, as some studies suggest, an increased risk of heart attack. Just 10 minutes soaking up the sun will help your body produce enough Vitamin D to keep you healthy and strong.

Connect with loved ones (10 Minutes)

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, but often gets pushed even further under the proverbial rug. Isolation can hurt you from the inside out, causing depression and a host of other mental health disorders. An easy way to waylay emotional decay: call a friend or relative once a day. Having a good support system is paramount to your health and wellbeing, even if you can’t chat for hours on end or indulge in weekly social outings.

Feed your brain (15 minutes)

Reading for just 15 minutes per day will expose your brain to more than 10,000 words… words that could potentially stave off Alzheimer’s, insomnia, and depression. HuffPost reports that it takes an average of just six minutes for reading to have a positive effect on your mind and body by allowing you to relax. The Mayo Clinic notes that relaxation reduces stress hormone production, improves digestion, and can elevate your ability to concentrate.

Will an hour each day change your life? Maybe not. But it will get you pointed in the right direction toward tending to your own mental, physical, emotional, and social needs.

Image via Pixabay

June Duncan

Author and Caregiver

june@riseupforcaregivers.org

riseupforcaregivers.org

I recently attended a presentation on what is commonly referred to as the Colorado Death with Dignity Act.  Its official name is the Colorado “End of Life Options” Act.  Before I begin, I would like to give a big shout out to Pam Peterson-Hohs, Director of Elder Law Crisis Management at the Hughes Law Firm for doing the presentation.  She did a great job and had a lot of valuable information to share on this topic.  If you have a chance to take in one of her presentations I highly recommend it.  Much of the information contained in this blog comes from the content presented by Pam and handed out at the seminar.  Also, thanks to Northglenn Heights Assisted Living for hosting the event.

In this blog we will look at the Death with Dignity Act from the perspective of the care provider company and individual professional caregiver and what they need to know or do when someone they are caring for is considering that option.

Placing the new law in context:  The Colorado End of Life Options Act authorizes medical aid-in-dying.  Medical Aid-In-Dying is a safe and trusted medical practice in which a terminally ill, mentally capable adult with a prognosis of six months or less to live, may request from his or her doctor a prescription for medication which they can choose to self-ingest to bring about a peaceful death.

The law offers terminally ill patients a way to access life-ending doctor prescribed sleep medication so that they may die peacefully.  To be perfectly clear, a person exercising their right under this law is not committing suicide and the act is not euthanasia.  It is important that as care providers and caregivers we do not use those terms when discussing the option with patients and their families.   For someone exercising their right to die in accordance with the law the cause of death will be listed as the underlying condition.

There is a defined process that a patient must follow in order to receive the drug.  We won’t go through the entire process in detail here.  However, you should know that it requires the agreement of two different physicians over the course of a minimum 15 day waiting period where one physician prescribes the drug and the other offers a confirming consulting opinion.  It is also important to note that the request cannot be made by a designee or third party including relatives or anyone with a medical power of attorney, and the request cannot be made via an advance directive.

To qualify the patient must be mentally sound and physically capable of self-administering the drug without assistance.  In other words, if the patient has a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia they are not eligible to receive the prescription drug.  The drug must also be orally ingested or taken through a feeding tube self-administered by the patient.  It cannot be injected.

If you are operating a care provider or health care facility you have responsibilities and there are things you should do with respect to this law.  You must make a policy decision whether your organization is going to opt in or opt out under the Act. In other words, you have to decide and write a policy around your decision to support aid-in-dying procedures consistent with the facility’s scope of service, or not support aid-in-dying. The policy should address and define your process, personnel responsibilities, risk management, reporting requirements, prescribing and self-administering procedures. In making the decision to opt in it is important to take into consideration the resources necessary to implement the Acts required procedures and that you have staff who are willing to serve.  A few important notes here for organizations electing to opt in:

• If your organization decides to opt in there may be people on your staff that do not want to participate. Your personnel policies should address this situation.  Additionally, new and existing staff should be made aware of the organizations policy stance on aid-in-dying so that employees and potential employees can make informed decisions about accepting or continuing in a position with your organization.
• Although the Act provides immunity for facility and staff acting in good faith, the potential risk for litigation still exists. Your organization and staff should be aware of the legal risks.
• As an operator of a care provider or health care facility you are required to provide advance written notice to patients/residents of the policy regarding your organizations stance with regard to aid-in-dying, i.e., whether your organization is opted in or opted out.
• You should have a written policy for all aspects of patient self-administration of medication and ensure that the policy is well known and understood by all staff.

If you elect to opt out a policy should be adopted reflecting this decision, how you will respond if someone under your care asks for aid-in-dying help, and how to address unplanned situations.  Here are a couple important notes for organizations electing to opt out:

• As an operator of a care provider or health care facility you are required to provide advance written notice to patients/residents of the policy regarding your organizations stance with regard to aid-in-dying, i.e., whether your organization is opted in or opted out.
• If your organization is opting out, you have a responsibility and should have a policy and process for a patient or resident who makes a request to obtain the medication. Generally speaking this would be some sort of advice or direction on where they can go to get the help they are requesting.

As a professional caregiver it is your responsibility to know and understand your organization’s policy and procedures with regard to caring for terminally ill patients that may elect the aid-in-dying option.  It is also very important that you think about your own stance as a caregiver in working with someone that might make this election and ask for your participation, and to be prepared with your response should someone make the request to you.