Are you struggling with the challenges of elderly in-home care? Follow “The Rule Of 4".

Author

Abby Services

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Abby Services

Posted on

Aug 13, 2024

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

"The Rule Of 4" can help direct elderly in-home care.

Do you struggle with directing the in-home care of a loved one?  Those overwhelmed with the care of an elderly family member may not know where to turn.

The day-to-day tasks required for elderly in-home care may bring unexpected surprises that can throw a daily routine into a tailspin. If you find yourself asking, “What am I going to do all day?” when providing elderly in-home care, then read on to learn about the “Rule of 4”.

Using “The Rule Of 4” is just one tool to help manage elderly in-home care. AARP has an excellent article on helping loved one’s age in place. 

What is "The Rule Of 4"?

The rule of 4 is a method of breaking up the day of a caregiver and a patient into manageable blocks and tasks. Family caregivers can use this method to not only help manage their time, but also to delegate the time a private in-home caregiver is assisting their loved one. The rule of 4 establishes realistic expectations and patterns in a predictable and easy-to-follow format.

Why use "The Rule Of 4"?

Abby Services has been helping families and seniors in Fort Myers and Cape Coral find the elderly in-home care they need since 1997. We have seen family caregivers burnt out and overwhelmed with the daily challenges of 

  • Alzheimers/memory care

  • Parkinson’s care

  • Hospice care

  • Postoperative care & support

  • General mobility support

Those overwhelmed with caregiving responsibilities are often challenged with meeting all of the care their elderly family member requires. In an attempt to meet all of an individual’s needs the caregiver’s needs may be neglected, leading to an even worse situation.

By using the rule of 4 caregivers can work to make sure their needs are met, as well as meeting the needs of their loved ones. Ok, enough with the what and why, let’s discuss the how.

Using "The Rule Of 4" to plan elderly in-home care.

My name is Scott Strachan. I am an RN and have been a caregiver with Abby Services. I have extensive in-home care experience as well as varied real-world hospital and senior care experience.

However, The rule of 4 actually came about through my experience as a father. As many are aware child care can be demanding and exhausting (much like elderly care). As a new father, I followed the EASY method. EASY stands for Eat, Activity, Sleep, You. By following this simple method I was able to ensure my children’s needs were met as well as my own. 

While some of the EASY method can be adopted into senior care, it requires a bit more flexibility due to the varying needs elderly patients have.

As a caregiver, nurse, and administrator of an In-Home service, I have learned to adapt some of the simplicity of the easy method into the rule of 4.

Step 1: Identify elder care needs.

 The first step of the rule of 4 is to identify priorities or things that need to be accomplished. This can be done if a family member is a caregiver or if a family member is directing the care of a professional in-home caregiver. Families together with the elderly family member are typically the ones best suited to identify the care needs of an elderly patient.

If you are struggling to identify what you hope to accomplish when providing elderly care a good place to start is through our commonly requested elderly caregiver services.

 

These cover common day-to-day tasks that need to be accomplished. You want to be sure first and foremost that ADL (Activity of Daily Living) needs are met. 

Step 2: Break down your elderly in-home care day into blocks of 4

Instead of considering what needs to be accomplished for an entire day (this can be overwhelming) consider what needs to be accomplished in 4-hour blocks. Typically there will be four, four-hour blocks during an individuals waking hours.

 

Often the 4-hour blocks follow a natural rhythm:

  • Morning Care

  • Afternoon Routine

  • Evening activities

  • Bedtime activities

While everyone’s needs and time frames will be different, this grouping can help in planning when and what activities need to be accomplished. This provides structure for the elder receiving care as well as the elder caregiver.

Step 3: Consider 4 elderly in-home care activities that will occur during this 4-hour block.

Using your list of required activities break down these activities based on the daily schedule you are developing. Many activities will fall into a natural time frame. For example, personal hygiene is typically accomplished in the morning, and before bed. 

 

In general, allot 1 hour for each chosen task. Some activities may take more or less than the time frame allotted. That’s ok, the intent is to provide a predictable structure for a caregiver and the elder care recipient that is not rushed or forced.

 

Following the rule of 4 often allows flexibility and important downtime for both caregiver and their elderly loved ones.

Step 4: Adaptation is key.

Initially, the “Rule Of 4” scheduling may need to be adapted and that’s ok. The intent of “The rule of 4” is not only adaptability but also the structure “The rule of 4” provides. It is important to remember that as an elderly patient’s needs change, their care may change as well. 

Did your loved one need to sleep in? That’s ok, adapt. “The rule of 4” is flexible. As you see predictable patterns you can adjust one or all of the 4-hour blocks you have scheduled. 

Using the rule of 4 to direct a private in-home caregiver.

Are you providing direction to a private caregiver? With “The rule of 4” simplicity is key. It is important to establish reasonable expectations both for the individual receiving elderly care, and their caregiver. Sometimes a rushed list of expectations in a 4-hour period creates undue stress and unrealistic expectations. 

Many in-home care services have a 4-hour minimum which makes “The Rule Of 4” a perfect tool for identifying priorities and expectations. It is recommended that when directing your elderly in-home care you have a written clear and concise plan of care. 

This establishes expectations that your private caregiver can understand and live up to. When developing your plan of care, you may want to develop essential tasks to be accomplished using the “Rule Of 4” format, as well as a list of secondary goals, should your caregiver require further direction or suggestions.

An Example of "The Rule Of 4."

It may help to see “The Rule of 4” in action. In this example, we will be developing a plan of care for AM Care. The main priorities in the am care are:

  • Waking up and preparing for the day

    • Personal hygiene, dressing.

  • Breakfast

  • Activity

  • Rest

When discussing “The Rule of 4” as we said, it is important to allow adequate time to complete the tasks. In this example, while breakfast may not take a full hour, the morning hygiene and routine may take longer than an hour. Essentially just remember that these are goals, not requirements, as such they are flexible.

As you may see rest is one of the goals in the 4-hour block. This is where the secondary goals can be utilized. These secondary tasks may include, light housekeeping, dishes, or laundry as time permits. Secondary goals may also include personal activities such as: reading the newspaper, watching a favorite show, or discussing current events.

Often by using 4-hour blocks there is a natural rhythm that is good for the elderly patient receiving care as well as the caregiver.

For many, there is stability in routine. Knowing what to expect brings a sense of structure.  Our days are often naturally broken up into 4-hour blocks. Consider Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, And Bedtime.

 

These are key events that can and should serve as anchors when considering “The Rule of 4”. In addition to meals and essential tasks such as personal hygiene, caretakers should consider an activity within each block. 

 

Depending on an individual’s circumstances an activity could include a walk, range of motion exercises, or assisting with laundry or even meal preparation.

Do you need more information on elderly in-home care?

If you have further questions about managing your elderly in-home care be sure to call Abby Services at 239-590-0861. Our team of experts can help be sure you have the input and direction to help your loved one stay safe and independent.

Other Articles You May Like

Planning Ahead: How Naborforce Supports Families and Seniors Through the Aging Process

The aging process often begins subtly, with gradual changes that seem manageable. One day, your parent is fully independent, taking care of daily tasks without issue. Then, suddenly, it feels as though the aging process accelerates, bringing new challenges all at once. This rapid shift can be difficult for family members, especially if they haven't planned ahead.Why Aging Can Seem to Happen SuddenlyWhile aging typically unfolds slowly, research suggests it doesnt always progress in a straight line. A study published in Nature Aging found that aging tends to occur in bursts, where rapid changes in areas like metabolism, immune health, and muscle strength happen. These bursts often occur around the age of 60, potentially leading to abrupt physical declines (SciTech Daily)(AARP).If you or your loved one wait too long to prepare, you may find yourselves scrambling to deal with the sudden onset of new health challenges. This lack of preparation often leaves caregivers feeling overwhelmed, under-equipped, and burned out.The Pitfalls of Delaying PreparationMany families delay planning for their parents aging, assuming they'll manage when the time comes. Others might avoid the topic altogether because it can be emotionally challenging to discuss. Unfortunately, this wait-and-see approach often leads to caregiver burnout and strained relationships, as families are forced to juggle urgent medical needs, emotional stress, and time-consuming responsibilities without a solid plan in place.If youre struggling to discuss getting help with your aging parent, check out some of our tips here. Remember, asking for assistance during the aging process doesnt mean youre powerless!How Naborforce Can Help You Plan AheadRather than waiting for a health crisis, Naborforce provides consistent support for families throughout the aging journey. As seniors age, they often need help with simple taskslike grocery shopping or getting to appointmentsthat can quickly become time-consuming for loved ones. With Naborforce, you can arrange for a friendly Nabor to assist, allowing your parent to stay independent longer while giving you peace of mind.By building a relationship with Naborforce early, your parent will already be accustomed to receiving help. When aging accelerates, youll have a reliable support system in placesomeone familiar with your parent who can step in to help with everyday tasks. This helps ease your parents transition while giving you the time and space to focus on your own responsibilities.The Importance of Having a PlanThe key to supporting your parent as they age is to start planning before their needs become urgent. With Naborforce, you can establish a flexible plan that evolves as your parents needs change. Whether its an occasional visit or regular check-ins, Naborforce can tailor its services to fit your schedule and your parents preferences. By starting early, you ensure that you and your parent have the right support in place before bigger challenges arise.Naborforce is just one of many resources available to help with the aging process. Other tools include financial planning, setting up a trust and estate plan, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using technology designed for senior living, and understanding the care continuum.Getting Started with NaborforceIts easy to get started with Naborforce. You can customize the level of support you need, from occasional assistance to more regular visits. Take the proactive step of setting up care before it becomes urgent, so your parent can stay comfortable, independent, and supported as they age.

Supporting Aging at Home: A Practical Guide for Families to Ensure Independence and Financial Stability

As more American families face the reality of aging, in-home care is becoming a preferred option. A recent AARP survey shows that over half of Americans aged 50 and above plan to remain in their homes as they age, and for good reasons. Staying at home offers comfort, familiarity, and with proper planning, can also be more cost-effective while promoting longer independence for elderly parents.With the continuous rise in healthcare and long-term care costs, having early and honest financial discussions is key.If your loved one is thinking about aging at home, weve created this guide with useful tips to help support senior independence while easing the financial burden.Here are steps to ensure your parents or loved ones age safely and comfortably at home.1. Start Financial Discussions EarlyWhile it can be uncomfortable to talk about finances with aging parents, its a vital conversation to have. Begin by reviewing their current financial situation, including assets, debts, and regular expenses. Also, look into possible income sources such as:PensionsSocial SecurityRetirement savings (401k, investments)Being open helps you understand your parents financial landscape while making them feel supported. Approach this conversation with compassion, emphasizing how you aim to maintain their quality of life while preparing for the future.(Need tips on convincing an aging parent to accept help? Check out our blog on how to navigate these conversations.)2. Understand the Costs of Aging at HomeAccording to the National Council for Aging, the average monthly cost of a senior care facility ranges between $4,500 and $5,300, a significant financial strain for many families. Aging at home can be more affordable, but it's essential to account for associated expenses.One of the hidden costs of aging in place is home maintenance and modifications, which can account for up to 52% of out-of-pocket expenses, according to a 2021 AARP study. Personal care services and medical staff, if needed, can also add to these expenses. For a detailed breakdown of long-term care costs, including potential surprises for families dealing with conditions like dementia, check out this Wall Street Journal article.3. Explore Long-Term Care InsuranceWith rising care costs, long-term care insurance can help cover expenses for in-home care, nursing, or assisted living. The earlier you invest in a policy, the more affordable the premiums.However, long-term care insurance may not be suitable for everyone. It can be pricey and may not cover all types of care. For more information, AARPs guide on hybrid policies, which combine life insurance and long-term care benefits, is a good resource.4. Plan for Home Modifications and SafetyTo keep your parents safe at home, certain home modifications, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts, might be necessary. These changes can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on your loved ones health needs.(Looking for affordable ways to enhance home safety? See Naborforces top 10 safety tips for under $10.)In addition to modifications, budgeting for adaptive equipment or medical technology like alert systems is crucial. These devices help ensure that your parents can access help quickly, contributing to their independence and peace of mind.5. Managing In-Home CareIf in-home care is required, costs will vary depending on the level of assistance needed. While part-time help from a home health aide may suffice initially, your parent may eventually need full-time or 24-hour care, which can cost over $100,000 per year.Before reaching that point, services like Naborforce can offer interim support, providing help with small tasks like running errands or getting to appointments. This can extend your parents independence and delay the need for full-time care.6. Know About Medicare, Medicaid, and Other ResourcesIts essential to know what benefits your parents may qualify for. While Medicare does not cover long-term care, it can provide short-term in-home care under certain conditions, such as after a hospital stay. Medicaid, on the other hand, covers long-term care but is means-tested, so eligibility will depend on a careful review of their financial standing.You should also explore local and national programs, including veterans benefits or state assistance programs, which can help offset the cost of aging in place. In some cases, if you become a caregiver for your loved one, you may be eligible for caregiver payments, depending on your states regulations.ConclusionHelping your parents age at home requires thoughtful financial planning, including income assessments, long-term care options, and preparing for unexpected medical needs. Starting early and maintaining open communication can make the process smoother, providing your loved ones with the comfort and security of aging in their own home. And remember, whenever you need an extra hand, Naborforce is here to help!What is Naborforce?Naborforce is a service designed to help seniors maintain their independence by connecting them with "Nabors"trusted community members who assist with everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, transportation to appointments, light household chores, or simply providing companionship. By offering flexible, non-medical support, Naborforce helps seniors age in place while giving families peace of mind. It's a great option for those who want to delay the need for full-time in-home care, ensuring that older adults can continue living comfortably and safely at home with just the right amount of help!Check out our page at www.naborforce.com

Senior Home Sweet Home: Making Your Space a Sanctuary of Comfort

As we age, our homes become more than just a place to live; they become sanctuaries of comfort, filled with cherished memories and familiar surroundings. However, over time, these spaces can become cluttered or difficult to navigate, making daily life less enjoyable and even more challenging. Thats where A Call to Order Professional Organizers comes inour goal is to help you transform your home into a place of peace, safety, and warmth. Whether you or your loved one is preparing to downsize or simply enhance their living environment, creating a senior-friendly sanctuary is an essential step toward maintaining a high quality of life.Creating a Space That Reflects Comfort and EaseOur homes should feel like a reflection of who we are and what we love. As we grow older, it becomes increasingly important to have a living environment thats both functional and comforting.Simplify Your Space, Simplify Your Life: One of the first steps to creating a senior-friendly sanctuary is simplifying your living space. This doesnt mean parting with every meaningful item but rather making room for the things that bring joy and comfort. Decluttering can open up your home, reducing stress and making it easier to move around. At A Call to Order, we guide you through the process with compassion, helping you sort through your belongings in a way that feels manageable and uplifting. Together, well keep the items that truly matter and find meaningful ways to part with what no longer serves you.Functionality Meets Warmth: Its not just about eliminating clutter; its about creating a space that feels warm and inviting. Think of it as balancing practicality with comfort. Simple changes like rearranging furniture to promote easier movement, adding softer lighting, or incorporating colors and textures that bring peace can have a profound impact. We help you arrange your space so that its easy to navigate while maintaining the sense of home thats so important.Adding Personal Touches to Foster JoyWhen it comes to creating a home that feels like a sanctuary, the details matter. Often, its the personal touches that transform a house into a home.Display What You Love: Over the years, we collect treasuresphotos, artwork, souvenirsthat tell our personal stories. Rather than letting these items become part of the clutter, display them in intentional ways that spark joy. Whether its a favorite collection of books, a gallery wall of family photos, or a cherished heirloom, these personal touches not only enhance your space but also keep your most important memories front and center. At A Call to Order, we help you create beautiful, organized displays that highlight the things you love, bringing warmth and personality into every room.Comfortable and Senior-Friendly Design: As we age, physical comfort and accessibility become increasingly important. Senior-friendly design doesnt mean sacrificing style, but it does mean paying close attention to how your home functions. We work with you to ensure that your space is safe and accessible, whether its by adding grab bars in the bathroom, adjusting the height of frequently used items, or creating pathways that are clear and easy to navigate. With a focus on both beauty and functionality, well help make your home a true sanctuaryone where you can move with confidence and ease.Emotional Well-Being Through Thoughtful OrganizationCreating a space that supports emotional well-being is key to making your home a sanctuary. A clutter-free, organized environment does more than just look niceit creates peace of mind and a sense of calm.Less Clutter, Less Stress: Its amazing how much lighter and more peaceful life feels when our surroundings are organized. Clutter can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and frustration, especially as we age. By focusing on organizing key areas such as the kitchen, bedroom, and living space, we can reduce daily stress and make your home feel more open and manageable. A Call to Orders team knows how to create systems that work for you, ensuring that everything you need is within easy reach, and every item has its place.A Space for Relaxation and Reflection: As we design your sanctuary, we consider how each space will be used and how it can enhance your daily life. Perhaps your favorite chair becomes the perfect spot for morning coffee and reflection. Maybe we create a cozy reading nook or arrange your bedroom to maximize relaxation and rest. By intentionally organizing and decorating your space to suit your lifestyle, we help you build an environment that nurtures both body and mind.Transforming your home into a sanctuary of comfort is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself as you age. With the help of A Call to Order Professional Organizers, your space can be more than just a homeit can be a reflection of who you are, filled with warmth, joy, and peace. Through thoughtful decluttering, personalized design, and senior-friendly functionality, well help you create a space that not only meets your practical needs but also brings you comfort and happiness every day.Whether youre preparing for a transition or simply want to improve the quality of your current living environment, A Call to Order is here to guide you with care, compassion, and expertise. Let us help you make your home the peaceful sanctuary you deserve.

Local Services By This Author

Abby Services In-Home Care

Non-Medical 6314 Corporate Ct. #160, Fort Myers, Florida, 33919

Abby Services is a family-owned and operated Nurse Registry that has been serving our area's seniors for over 20 years. Abby Services helps Fort Myers and Cape Coral seniors stay at home by assisting them to find professional, safe, trustworthy caregivers. Tom Strachan (On Left) started Abby Services from his home in 1996. At that time, only a handful of care services assisted our area seniors. Since then Tom has retired but Abby Services lives on through his son and daughter Scott Strachan and Jaimee Thompson. Although there are many franchises and new inexperienced in-home care services Abby Services is proud of its experience, value, and level of service. Scott Strachan (On Right) is an RN and Administrator of Abby Services. He has also been a caregiver with Abby Services while working as a CNA. Scott attended Nursing School at Penn State University. As an RN he has worked in a variety of settings throughout the country including Med-Surg, Hospice, Palliative Care, Oncology, Ortho, Medical ICU, Surgical ICU, Neuro ICU, Cardiac Rehab, and In-Home Care. He has even worked locally at Lee Memorial Hospital, Shell Point, and other local facilities. Jaimee Thompson is often known as the face of Abby Services. She has been with the service since it was founded in 1997 and works hard to promote the professional in-home care services they offer. She is very active in the community and works closely with Abby Services Community Partners. You may see her visiting individuals at some of the best senior care facilities in our area. Jaimee is proud of the fair and honest service Abby Services has become known for. Let the Abby Services family help your family, call today!

Abby Services In-Home Care

Home Health 6314 Corporate Ct #160, Fort Myers, Florida, 33919

Abby Services is a family-owned and operated Nurse Registry serving our area's seniors for over 20 years. Abby Services helps Fort Myers and Cape Coral seniors stay home by helping them find professional, safe, trustworthy in-home caregivers. Tom Strachan (On Left) started Abby Services from his home in 1996. At that time, only a handful of care services assisted our area seniors. Since then Tom has retired but Abby Services lives on through his son and daughter Scott Strachan and Jaimee Thompson. Although there are many franchises and new inexperienced in-home care services Abby Services is proud of its experience, value, and level of service. Scott Strachan (On Right) is an RN and Administrator of Abby Services. He has also been a caregiver with Abby Services while working as a CNA. Scott attended Nursing School at Penn State University. As an RN he has worked in a variety of settings throughout the country including Med-Surg, Hospice, Palliative Care, Oncology, Ortho, Medical ICU, Surgical ICU, Neuro ICU, Cardiac Rehab, and In-Home Care. He has even worked locally at Lee Memorial Hospital, Shell Point, and other local facilities. Jaimee Thompson is often known as the face of Abby Services. She has been with the service since it was founded in 1997 and works hard to promote the professional In in-home care services they offer. She is very active in the community and works closely with Abby Services Community Partners. You may see her visiting individuals at some of the best senior care facilities in our area. Jaimee is proud of the fair and honest service Abby Services has become known for. Let the Abby Services family help your family, call today!