The world is still feeling the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic saw an increase in supply chain shortages relating to many household items. These effects are still prevalent, with many still worried about being unable to get essential supplies.
Caring for older individuals requires that you have a few essentials. Planning will ensure that even amid such shortages, you have all supplies that will facilitate your work. Some simple but crucial items you may need in your line of work include toilet paper, paper towels, and household cleaning products.
As a caregiver, you need not worry about shortages. You only need to know the products you may have difficulty accessing and make plans to ensure you have these items.
The following tips may help you navigate supply chain shortages:
Planning Ahead
As a caregiver in Frederick, Hagerstown, or Middletown, MD, it is good to plan and budget for the items you will require in the coming months. When offering care to older persons, you may need to determine their food preferences. You will also need to budget for the necessary supplies and buy the items you may want in bulk. Bulk purchases will last a few months as experts work on restoring things to normal. Visit your nearest store with a list of items you will need and save yourself the last-minute hassle.
You'll also likely notice increased prices as resources are limited and demand increases, so shopping early for holiday gifts is a good idea. Start making your shopping list now for some essential items:
Food Items
If the older persons you care for are canned food lovers, you should stock up early. The shortage of aluminum significantly affects the canned beverage industry. Ever since the pandemic, aluminum's price has been on the increase. These increases will pass on to consumers as cost increments in local stores in Frederick, Hagerstown, and Middletown, MD. Stock up on your older persons' favorite canned beverages.
Bottled water
Many retailers may hoard or limit the number of bottled water cases one can buy. Investing in a water filtration pitcher would save you a great deal.
Household Item
Air Purifiers
Some older individuals may be more prone to breathing issues. This means that air purifiers would be ideal for them. Shortages in supply chains may make it hard to find air purifiers. In case the individual you are caring for experiences breathing problems, it would help if you included one or two purifiers in your budget. The extra purifier will be a backup in case the other one malfunctions.
Paper Goods
Paper goods rank highly as some of the essential goods you will need when caring for older individuals. The paper market is highly unpredictable, and there is a likelihood of shortages if sellers hoard these products. As such, it is a good idea to budget for and purchase products like toilet paper and paper towels. You may also need to stock up on diapers for older persons in case the individuals you are caring for have uncontrollable bowel movements.
Shortages in supply chains affect all people. With careful planning, you can ensure that your loved one lives comfortably. Create a list of all the items you need to avoid shortages.
How Senior Helpers Can Assist in Navigating Supply Chain Shortages
If you live in Frederick, Hagerstown, or Middletown, MD, and have an older person that needs caregiving, look no further. At Senior Helpers, we offer in-home care services for older persons. Our caregivers have experience caring for individuals with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's, and other chronic diseases. Contact us now!