Why Every Caregiver Needs a Planner (Trust Me, It’s a Lifesaver!)

Y’all, I have to tell you about something that has truly saved me during my caregiving journey: PLANNERS. I’m not exaggerating when I say that without them, I’d be completely lost. Sure, I use my phone to keep notes and track dates (Google Keep has been a lifesaver, too), but there’s just something about having a paper planner that makes all the difference. Seeing the full calendar laid out in front of me helps me keep everything straight—and trust me, when you’re caregiving, there’s a *lot* to keep track of.

If you’re a caregiver, you might feel like you don’t have time for this. But let me tell you, finding just a few minutes at the end of the day (or first thing in the morning) to jot down what’s going on in your life is absolutely worth it. Even if it’s just a few quick notes, having that record will be a lifesaver when full-time caregiving kicks in. You won’t remember everything, no matter how much you think you will.

Why Planners Work (And Why Phones Alone Aren’t Enough)

Using my phone to jot down notes is convenient, especially when I’m on the go. But there’s something different about physically writing things down. It helps me stay organized and, honestly, it’s much easier to look back on. I’ve been keeping planners for the past five years, which have been some of the most intense years of caregiving for me. Having those records has made such a difference.

Why a Planner is a Caregiver’s Best Friend

When you’re new to full-time caregiving, it’s almost impossible to remember everything. Keeping notes on your phone is handy, especially when you’re on the move, but having a physical planner allows you to organize your thoughts better. Here’s why I swear by it:

1. Quick Reference: I’ve kept planners for the past five years, and they’ve been invaluable. Whenever I need to look back at specific dates or events, flipping through the pages is much faster and easier than scrolling endlessly on a phone.
2. Organization Options: I prefer spiral-bound planners like the Blue Sky brand. They typically offer a monthly layout for a big-picture view and sections for daily notes. You don’t need to write lengthy entries—just jotting down key events or updates is enough.
3. Backup for Emergencies: Phones are fantastic, but they’re not foolproof. I once lost my phone during a hectic time, and the panic I felt was overwhelming. Thankfully, I had my planner to fall back on. It’s a relief to know that if technology fails, you have a reliable backup.
4. Memory Connection: Writing by hand helps cement things in your memory. Plus, a planner often feels like a mini journal, capturing snippets of your day that you can look back on.

Here’s why I love paper planners:

1. The Full Calendar View: I can see the whole month laid out, which helps me manage appointments and events at a glance.
2. Space for Notes: Most planners have sections where you can jot down quick notes about the day. You don’t need to write a novel—just the highlights or anything important.
3. Tangible Backups: Unlike a phone, a paper planner won’t get lost or run out of battery. I’ve lost my phone before (panic doesn’t even begin to cover it), and having my planner as a backup was a huge relief.

My Favorite Planners (And What to Look For)

Personally, I love the Blue Sky brand planners. They’re spiral-bound, so they’re easy to flip open and lay flat, which makes writing in them a breeze. But honestly, the best planner is the one that works for you. Here’s what I recommend looking for:

– Monthly and Weekly Views: A full-month layout helps you see the big picture, while weekly pages give you space for daily details.
– Durability: Go for something sturdy that can handle being carried around and used daily.
– Size: Pick a size that fits your lifestyle—something portable enough to take with you but big enough to write in comfortably.

Choosing the Right Planner

Planners come in all shapes and sizes, so find one that suits your needs. Look for features like a full-month view, plenty of space for notes, and a design that feels comfortable to use. It’s worth investing $20-$30 in a quality planner—it will pay for itself in peace of mind.

How a Planner Will Help You as a Caregiver

Caregiving is overwhelming—there’s no way around it. There’s so much to manage, from doctor’s appointments to medications to daily tasks. Keeping everything in one place can make it feel a little more manageable. Here’s how my planner has helped me:

– Managing Appointments: I can quickly check dates and times for doctor visits or therapy sessions.
– Tracking Progress: Whether it’s noting how a treatment is going or recording a loved one’s moods, these little details are invaluable.
– Staying Grounded: Writing things down helps me feel more in control during a chaotic time.

A Final Word of Advice

If you’re a family caregiver, do yourself a favor and get a planner. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive—just find one that works for you. Start keeping track of the important things now, because I promise, you’ll thank yourself later.

Even if you’re a tech junkie like me, a paper planner is worth the investment. It’s not just about staying organized; it’s about creating a lifeline to help you navigate the incredibly challenging (and rewarding) journey of caregiving.

Take care of yourselves, and I’ll talk to you soon!

Love, Sharon