If you are not already -- definitely - wear latex gloves - double is better. Hold breath, when you need to breather -turn face into your arm - shallow breath - you will be breathing in your own scent. I have no kids, never babysat, the first diaper I ever changed was 90 yo dad's CDIF infected diaper. Once it was 6 times in one night. Toughest thing I have ever done.
Katie, sounds like you have your hands full. I lived with my dad for 6 mos. after his heart attack. During that time I had to put my mom in a facility for her dementia. She was still "functioning" but me being there threw her completely off. She didn't cook, clean and was starting not to take care of herself (saying she had showered and washed her hair when she hadn't). It was the hardest thing I have ever done with the exception of losing my sister 2 years ago. Mom just didn't understand why I was leaving her at this place but finally settled in and that was her new norm. Now I take care of my dad 93 who lives by himself in a retirement community. Hard of hearing, heart problems, bowel problems, yada, yada, and yada. Ok, rambling here which is easy to do when you do what we as care givers do. :)) We all have your back. Good Luck and God Bless.
OMG...nanas1...give the girl a break!!! There is absolutely a HUGE difference between cleaning a baby's bottom and an adults!! It's awful...and most caregivers are trying to learn how to get through this!! UGH!
Alexis407, you hang in there and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice. This is a wonderful site despite people who would rather judge and berate others than offer sound advice based on their own experiences and knowledge. Sometimes long term caregiving can lead to bitterness that's not always acknowledged. God bless you -and everyone else- for trying your best for your loved one.
Best advice I can give you is put Vicks under your nose. Put your mother in pull ups and a short selve short pants WET SUITE it zippers up the back and she would not be able to take it off. It was the best investment I have bought for my step dad. He would wipe poop every where. I put a under tea shirt on him and then the wet suit and dress him plus he loves it because he's all ways cold and it keeps him warm. It has worked out perfect. And I take it off in the morning put him on the tolit he goes I shower him and dress him. I was it once a week. You can pick one up at Walmart or sporting goods place for 50.00 Good luck!
OMG...the ideas we caretakers come up with!! lol But that is what it's all about...we reeeeaaaaalllly have to be creative!! I've learned a LOT thru the years caring for my parents...who have very different personalities. GOD BLESS ALL CARETAKERS!!
Hold breath, when you need to breather -turn face into your arm - shallow breath - you will be breathing in your own scent.
I have no kids, never babysat, the first diaper I ever changed was 90 yo dad's CDIF infected diaper. Once it was 6 times in one night. Toughest thing I have ever done.