Through a grant from the Sunflower Foundation, Kansas Advocates for Better Care (KABC) is sponsoring training sessions throughout the state in which a registered nurse will give instruction and assistance to caregivers. Watch for announcements in your area.

As a part of the program, KABC is offering a toll-free RN consultant to answer questions pertaining to specific caregiving situations. Periodically, one of those questions will be answered in this Sense for Seniors column in hopes that others will find the information helpful.

The toll-free number for this service and other valuable information from KABC is (800) 525-1782.

As a volunteer respite caregiver, I am concerned about how to help someone whom I don’t know well. What should I do when helping someone with his meal?

Nonprofessional caregivers generally do not have any training pertaining to correct techniques for providing hands-on care for activities of daily living, such as helping with eating and drinking or dressing or moving. Thankfully you already realize the awkwardness of your situation.

Here is a summary guide for assisting with feeding:

The person should sit up straight, with head slightly forward.

Food portions should be small. Offer finger foods or mini-sandwiches.

Serve soft foods, such as scrambled eggs, applesauce or cottage cheese for ease of swallowing.

Use bowls or a plate with a rim to help avoid spilling.

Use silverware/spoons with large handles for ease of grip.

Use cups or mugs for ease of grip with the handles.

Fill glasses half full and use straws that bend to help avoid spills.

Arrange the food on the plate the same way each time. This helps those who are visually impaired or confused.

Set the plate on a nonskid surface to help avoid spills.

Maintain oral hygiene. Make sure the mouth is empty when the meal is finished.

Learn the Heimlich maneuver.

A consultant RN is available to respond to your questions about caregiving, at no cost to you. A grant from the Sunflower Foundation to Kansas Advocates for Better Care allows for caregivers to call toll-free (800) 525-1782 for an individual discussion with the nurse.