Caregiver Checklist: Daily, Weekly & Emergency Essentials
Caregiving can feel overwhelming fast — missed meds, mixed-up appointments, and endless small tasks. Use this clear, practical checklist to get control of the day-to-day, reduce mistakes, and keep the person you care for safer and more comfortable.
Start by printing a single sheet or using a notes app. Keep that master checklist where everyone can see it: fridge, phone, or shared family folder. Update the list when medications, doctors, or routines change.
Daily & Weekly Tasks
Daily routine makes the biggest difference. These are the actions that stop problems before they start:
- Medication management: Keep a current med list with drug names, doses, times, and reason for each drug. Use a pill organizer and set alarms. Refill meds when you have 7 days left — call the pharmacy that morning and arrange delivery or pickup.
- Appointments and reminders: Keep a visible calendar with phone numbers and addresses for all providers. Confirm key appointments 48 hours ahead. Add telehealth links to the calendar entry.
- Nutrition and hydration: Plan simple meals that match dietary needs. Aim for small, frequent snacks if appetite is low and set a daily water goal (for example, six 8-oz cups).
- Personal care: Track bathing, oral care, and dressing on a simple checklist so caregivers don’t duplicate or miss tasks.
- Mobility and safety checks: Clear walkways, secure rugs, and check mobility aids daily. Note any changes in walking or balance.
- Symptom log: Jot down new symptoms, mood changes, sleep patterns, and appetite each day to share with clinicians.
Safety, Paperwork & Emergencies
Preparation saves time and worry. Put these items in a folder or an app labeled “Medical Info.”
- Emergency contact sheet: List names, numbers, relationship, and primary doctor. Keep one copy in the home and one in the car.
- Medical summary: One-page list of diagnoses, allergies, current meds, and recent hospital visits for ER staff or new providers.
- Advance documents: Know where power of attorney, advance directives, and insurance cards are. Tell close family where to find them.
- Home safety items: Test smoke and CO detectors monthly, keep a flashlight and first-aid kit accessible, and install grab bars near toilets and showers.
Communicate with the healthcare team using one notebook or app: write questions before appointments, bring your symptom log, and ask for clear action steps if a problem arises. For backup, recruit at least two people who can step in for a day — leave them the checklist and show them once.
Finally, protect yourself. Schedule short breaks, accept help, and join a caregiver support group or online forum. Even one reliable hour a week to run an errand or rest keeps you effective and prevents burnout. Pick one thing from this list to do today — small changes add up fast.
