A caregiving situation
Someone else is
taking over care.
When a sibling, friend or paid caregiver steps in, a brief handover can make the next few hours clearer for everyone.
Start with the person receiving care
Ask what they want the next caregiver to know and how they prefer their day to run. A handover can be as short as a conversation and a page of notes. Include only what is needed, and agree on who can see it.
Before the handover
Confirm who is coming, when responsibility changes, and how to reach each other. Explain the ordinary routine, accessibility or communication preferences, upcoming appointments, and where to find supplies. Agree which tasks the new caregiver is able and authorized to do.
Point to a current medication list and the care team’s instructions. Explain where the list is kept and whom to contact with questions. Do not ask a new caregiver to guess a dose or change instructions; contact the prescriber or pharmacist when anything is unclear.
Write down what is still open
- Any relevant changes that the person wants shared, described in ordinary words.
- Upcoming appointments and transport arrangements.
- Questions already sent to the care team and who will follow up.
- Names and numbers for the main caregiver, clinician, pharmacy and an emergency contact.
- Preferences about meals, rest, privacy and communication.
For example: “Appointment is Tuesday at 10. The clinic is calling about the test result; Maya will answer and update you.” That identifies the next action without presenting an observation as a medical conclusion.
Agree what happens next
Ask the incoming caregiver to repeat anything that feels uncertain, and decide when you will check in. Ask the care team for written instructions when needed. In an emergency, contact local emergency services rather than waiting for a handover message.
A printed sheet, shared file or short call can work. Keep copies somewhere appropriate for the person’s privacy; a printed page or saved PDF can be read by anyone who has it.
Sources and next steps
For more on coordinating roles and seeking support, see the National Institute on Aging’s guidance on sharing caregiving responsibilities and its long-distance caregiving advice.