Caregiver's Operating Handbook (COH) , "A Checklist for the CareGiver on Weekends"
Caregiver's Operating Handbook (COH) , "A Checklist for the CareGiver on Weekends"
The Caregiver Operating Handbook (COH) is more than a practical guide—it’s a compassionate companion for navigating the complexities of dementia caregiving. Inspired by the precision and structure of a military Pilot Operating Handbook (POH), the COH offers 79 detailed normal procedures, and 11 emergency procedures tailored to support caregivers in both everyday challenges and critical moments. Beyond step-by-step instructions, the COH encourages a profound shift from a lens of mind-centered caregiving to heart-centered caregiving, empowering caregivers to provide care that is as emotionally supportive as it is effective. Whether addressing routine tasks or emergencies, the COH equips caregivers with real-world solutions and a sense of peace, even when professional help isn’t immediately available.
Introducing the Caregiver Operating Handbook (COH)
Caring for a loved one with dementia is a journey filled with both challenges and deeply meaningful moments. As caregivers, we navigate complex medical, emotional, and logistical hurdles daily, often feeling overwhelmed by the responsibility.
To support fellow caregivers, I created the Caregiver Operating Handbook (COH)—a practical, easy-to-use resource designed to help manage the everyday realities of dementia care. Structured as a checklist, it provides quick access to essential topics, including medical emergencies, behavioral changes, legal matters, and self-care strategies.
Key Features of the COH:
Emergency Procedures – Step-by-step guidance for critical situations such as choking, heart attacks, and falls.
Daily Care Strategies – Practical tips on nutrition, hygiene, mobility, and managing challenging behaviors.
Emotional & Social Support – Advice on caregiver burnout, stress management, and finding a support network.
Legal & Financial Considerations – Information on power of attorney, advance directives, and preventing financial exploitation.
Health & Medical Guidance – Insights on medication management, doctor visits, and understanding dementia progression.
This handbook was created to empower caregivers with the knowledge and confidence needed to provide compassionate, informed care. Whether you are new to caregiving or have been on this journey for years, the COH offers clarity in moments of uncertainty. I know this firsthand—because as the author, I am also a caregiver to my loved one. An analysis of our journey shows:
Emergencies are rare but almost inevitable over time (93% chance within 5 years).
Normal procedures are much more frequent, occurring every 51 days on average.
For every emergency, caregivers will manage ~26 normal procedures, so the day-to-day workload is mostly routine, not crisis-driven.
Long-term planning is possible—expect about 36 normal and 3 emergency procedures in the next 5 years.
If you would like to learn more or discuss any of the topics covered, please feel free to reach out. We are all in this together, and sharing knowledge strengthens our caregiving community.