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Top 5 crossover SUVs with superior safety features
Read MoreCrossover SUVs are a popular choice for people looking to buy a new car. They offer more space for both cargo and passengers and are capable of some light-duty towing. A critical factor most people consider when buying a crossover SUV is safety. Thankfully, many models from famous carmakers come with top-class protection and driver assistance features. We’ve compiled a list of the best safe crossover SUVs in this article.
2022 Nissan Rogue
The latest Nissan Rogue has been awarded the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It’s equipped with impressive standard safety techs, such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, blind-spot warning, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The 2022 Nissan Rogue also features ten strategically-placed airbags and zone body construction, which helps absorb the energy of an impact, protecting passengers.2022 Mazda CX-5
Mazda is known for highly-safe vehicles, and its 2022 CX-5 is no exception. All-wheel drive is now standard on all CX-5 trims. The car comes with blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control, adaptive front-lighting system, smart braking system, and driver attention alert system. These safety and assistance features make the vehicle a worthy purchase.2022 Hyundai Tucson
The newest Hyundai Tucson earns excellent ratings in crash tests from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Safety and driver-assistance features across trim variants include lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, rear-seat reminder, driver attention monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The vehicle also has a blind-spot view monitor and a smart cruise control system.2022 Subaru Forester
The 2022 Subaru Forester scores well in safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. All models come with all-wheel drive and Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight® driver assist technology, which monitors traffic movement, optimizes cruise control, and warns drivers swaying outside their lanes. Other safety and assistance features include blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking.2022 Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevy Equinox is another well-performing and safe crossover SUV. The carmaker has outfitted the newest Equinox with many standard safety assistance features, such as forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, lane-keep assist with lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlamps. Optional features include adaptive cruise control, front and rear park assistance, and rear cross-traffic alert. -
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6 safest SUVs in 2022
Read MoreA sports utility vehicle, or SUV, has become a go-to choice for many American families. One of the main reasons people consider buying SUVs is that it feels safer than other cars, thanks to their large and sturdy build. Moreover, modern SUVs are loaded with a wide range of safety and driver assistance features, making them incredibly safe and reliable. If you’re in the market for a new SUV, you must consider some latest options.
2022 Acura RDX
This crossover SUV from Acura is currently one of the safest vehicles on the market. The automaker has outfitted all trim variants of the 2022 RDX with a suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including lane-departure warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition system.2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge
If you’re looking for a compact electric SUV with excellent safety features, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge should be your choice. It’s equipped with vital safety and driver-assistance features, like lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and blind-spot detection. The vehicle also has an advanced body structure and a unique battery safety cage that can protect all passengers in a collision.2022 Subaru Ascent
With three rows and a seating capacity of up to 8 passengers, the 2022 Ascent is Subaru’s largest SUV. Its standard EyeSight driver assists technology can monitor traffic movement, optimize cruise control, and warn drivers when they’re outside their lane. Higher trim variants of the Ascent feature extra safety technologies like rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, among others.2022 Mazda CX-5
Mazda is a Japanese carmaker known for making safe SUVs; the 2022 CX-5 is no exception. Armed with Mazda’s i-Activsense®1 safety technology, the SUV offers superior protection to the driver, passengers, and pedestrians. Features like adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and more are standard on all CX5 variants.2022 Kia Telluride
The 2022 Kia Telluride is a full-size SUV with three rows of seating. The standard safety features include forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Parents might also appreciate the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system across the 2022 Telluride models.2022 Cadillac XT6
The XT6 is a new three-row SUV from Cadillac. In addition to common safety and driver-assistance features, such as forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, Cadillac has furnished the XT6 with a few lesser-known safety techs, including a safety alert seat that vibrates to help the driver identify the direction of a potential crash.Regardless of the vehicle you choose, taking care of your car’s interiors is critical. For premium car seat protectors or car floor mats, visit WeatherTech’s website. You can find interior protection products, license plate frames, bumper protection items, and many more. WeatherTech® may not offer discounts to AAA or AARP members, but they are offering 50 percent off on shipping charges for select items purchased from their website. Another popular hub for similar car essentials is Husky Liners®.
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Popular Volvo car deals and discounts
Read MoreWhen you think of sturdy cars that will last you a lifetime, one of the brand names that comes to mind is Volvo. Volvo offers a wide range to its customer base with options ranging from sedans, SUVs, wagons, and crossovers. What’s even better is that we now have new 2021 Volvo car deals with never-before-seen offers and exciting options. We have listed some of the offers that you can avail of. For updated information, do visit Volvo’s official website.
Finance offers
Volvo is offering you 1.99% APR for different time limits with options starting at 24, 36, 39,42, 48 up to 60 months. This offer is available for qualified customers who meet Volvo Car Financial Services (VCFS) credit standards. The down payment may vary for different models and will also depend on your credit qualifications. This offer is available for select models and could vary from location to location. To understand more and check your eligibility, connect with a dealership near you.Cash offers
On certain models and at the discretion of some dealers, Volvo is offering cashback up to $2750. Some of the cashback offers are applicable only for those looking for retail purchases and not for leasing the car. But don’t worry, Volvo does have different loyalty, affiliate, and allowance offers for those interested in leasing the car. Eligibility is a critical factor in this deal. Speak to your closest dealer and check if they are giving you this benefit.Lease offers
If you aren’t sure about purchasing the car and want to lease it for some time before you decide, the 2021 plan of new Volvo car deals will benefit you. For certain models, the company has waived off security deposits. They have offers on lease and loyalty bonuses. The company does have certain conditions and criteria that have to meet. For instance, buyers need to be US citizens, the offer is not transferable, and that vehicles purchased or leased under the Overseas Delivery (VCIC) program are not eligible for these certain benefits. For further clarity, you should speak to a representative or check the company’s website. -
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Enjoy lease deals on these new Volvo cars
Read MoreVolvo’s recent car launch includes the new S60 and XC90 and these are currently available on lease. The automobile company offers monthly payment at low rates, which means you can drive the top-tier models without having to shell out a lot of money. Leasing a car is a good option for short-term use or to write off tax. With a Volvo, you’ll also enjoy great features, which is a plus. Take a look at the following Volvo cars and new lease deals available.
XC90 T5 FWD Momentum
The powerful and angular XC90 is available for a monthly payment of $579. It comes with front park assist, wireless charging, and other standard Volvo features, which make it a well-rounded car to have. The lease deal includes destination fee and a lease bonus application of $1800, which is like a prepayment for future charges. You are required to pay $4,979 at signing. You can contact an authorized Volvo retailer to avail of this new Volvo lease deal.
S60 Recharge R-Design Expression
For a versatile hybrid sedan, go for the S60 Recharge that has a lease deal of $419 per month. Similar to the XC90, the price is inclusive of destination fee; however, in this deal you will get a $6,750 lease bonus application. This car comes with the blind spot information system (BLIS) feature that maintains safety while lane changing. As with all Volvo cars on lease, the user will have the responsibility of mileage limits and excess wear.
S60 T5 AWD Momentum
If you’re looking for a spacious three-powertrain car, this S60 Momentum can be your short-term ride for only $379 a month, thanks to the new Volvo lease deal. At this price, you can enjoy features like keyless start, hands-free communications system, and electronic stability control. Volvo doesn’t take a security deposit and offers an application for a $3,500 lease bonus. This is a good car to get on lease as it is cheaper than the others, looks incredible, and offers a seamless driving experience.
Before you pick a car, check for maintenance, registration, and dealer charges to make an informed decision. Also, to get a Volvo car on lease, you have to meet certain requirements including credit standards. So, go through all the terms and conditions before you get the car.
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Rental rates for Cadillac SUVs across top agencies
Read MoreWhen it comes to renting a luxury SUV, a Cadillac is the first choice for many consumers. After all, they’re well-built, powerful, and ideal for everything from adventure-packed family vacations to showing off. Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV are the two luxury SUVs from the American carmaker. But there are also other great mid-size SUV options available, such as XT6, XT5, and XT4.
If you’re looking for monthly, weekly, or daily rates for renting a Cadillac SUV, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ve discussed rental rates across popular car rentals.
Hertz
Hertz is one of the largest car rental companies in the country. To find the exact daily rate for renting a Cadillac SUV from Hertz, you’ll need to sign up with them and share specific details like your pick-up location and date. The company will give you a flat $25 discount if you rent a full-size or above car before 31st August 2021. The vehicle is available for pick up at top airport locations, including LAX, Miami, San Francisco, and Las Vegas.Falcon Car Rental
The daily rate for renting a Cadillac SUV from Falcon Car Rental is around $325/day. But if you’re renting for the long-term, you can get weekly and monthly discounts of 15 percent and 30 percent, respectively. Keep in mind that you’ll have to rent the vehicle for a minimum of two days and pay a security deposit between $1,000 and $5,000.Sixt
With Sixt, you can rent luxury SUVs like Escalade and Escalade ESV, and even mid-size SUVs like XT5 and XT4. To check the availability of the model you prefer, you’ll need to visit their official website and enter your pick-up location. Also, make sure to enter your pick-up and return date and time to check daily rental prices and offers.Enterprise
Enterprise in another famous car rental company. Their Exotic Car Collection features models from top brands, including Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV. However, the car you’ll receive is subject to availability in your preferred location. Enterprise offers pick-ups from many places within cities and major airports, including Phoenix, Atlanta, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Boston, and Nashville.Keep in mind that the daily rate for renting a Cadillac SUV will vary from one car rental to another. It’s also worth noting that the Escalade can accommodate up to seven passengers and comes with power-adjustable heated and cooled front seats, among several other features.
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Notable features of the 2021 Subaru Ascent
Read MoreIf you’re in the market for a new car, you know it’s important to not ignore Subaru’s biggest vehicle, the Ascent. It’s a three-row SUV designed essentially for families. The Japanese automaker first launched the Ascent in 2019 and has since upgraded it to compete against the latest SUVs from top car manufacturers. In addition to the basic model, the brand-new Ascent comes in three trim variants: Premium, Limited, and Touring. Herein, let’s look at key features of the 2021 Subaru Ascent.
Interior room and cargo space
The spacious interior of the 2021 Subaru Ascent is one of its highlights. Its three rows of flexible seating offers can comfortably accommodate seven or eight passengers. The second-row captain’s chairs are available on Premium, Limited, and Touring models. With all second and third-row seats down, cargo space in the Ascent increases to a maximum of 86.5 cubic feet. That means there’s ample space for every passenger and their gear.
Safety and driver-assistance
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2021 Subaru Ascent the highest possible rating, making it one of the safest vehicles out there. The EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is standard across all Ascent models and is as good as having extra sets of eyes on the road that can do everything from monitoring traffic movement to preventing you from going outside your lane. Other important safety and driver-assistance features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, among many others.Performance, towing capacity, and fuel economy
The 2021 Subaru Ascent is packed with a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that outputs 260 horsepower. The engine is coupled with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic and standard all-wheel drive for seamless gear changing and excellent off-roading experiences. The powerful engine has an impressive towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. And, when it comes to fuel economy, the Ascent receives the EPA rating of 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.Infotainment
The Ascent is equipped with a bunch of entertainment and connectivity features to make your ride more enjoyable. All variants come with the STARLINK Entertainment Anywhere kit, which includes two 32GB Apple iPads with cases and two Harman Kardon Bluetooth headphones. The vehicle features an 8-inch touchscreen, a built-in and voice-activated navigation system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, among other features. The available cloud-based STARLINK apps and SiriusXM also allow you to instantly access news, navigation, music, and podcasts. -
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Top 3 budget-friendly electric cars
Read MoreElectric cars are taking over the minds of many but not as much land in people’s garages. Part of the reason is the hefty price tag that comes attached to buying these green vehicles. Other smaller parts include the lack of performance as compared to old-school fuel-powered vehicles. However, technology keeps making advances, and there are some undeniably tempting options in the electric vehicles industry with some well-loved and preferred names attached to them. Here are some top electric car models and their prices
1. MINI Cooper SE Electric Hardtop
MINI Cooper has been one of the favorites among many; it is only obvious that a green car version of the classic would appeal to the masses. For the lucky people eligible to have access to the federal electric car tax, the MINI Cooper SE Electric HArdtop comes at the price of $23,000; for the rest of us, the price lies at $29,900. The car comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, a single electric motor, and stunning exteriors. The charging time to get the battery to full capacity is 5 hours, and it delivers 110 miles of driving range. You can just as quickly charge the MINI at home with a 7.4KW outlet and five hours to spare.2. Chevrolet Bolt
Another budget-friendly buy to appear in the EV market is the Chevrolet Bolt. The Bolt has roomy interiors that will appeal to anyone wanting a comfortable ride. The fully electric car is capable of providing you with 259 miles of driving range when completely charged. With the DC fast charge option, it can deliver a range of 100 miles in 30 minutes. The car’s other additional features include a 10.3-inch touchscreen, Teen Driver technology, Android AutoTM compatibility, and Apple CarPlay. All of this can be bagged with a price starting at $36,620.3. Tesla Model 3
Tesla is one of the most popular names to have emerged in the electric vehicles industry; it does not hurt that the Tesla Model 3 is also among the cheapest available options. The machine comes in a futuristic look with ample space for the occupants. The cargo isn’t all that small either. The EV also includes a dash camera built in along with a 15-inch touchscreen display designed to make things easier. The easy-to-handle motor is available at just $37,500 if you choose to go with the standard model. -
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A guide to AAA Roadside Assistance
Read MoreEarlier, when a car broke down or had any malfunction, there was no way one could get help. People had to figure out a way on their own. Unfortunate situations are uncalled for, but having access to no help is what makes these accidents even more gruesome. This led to the birth of the American Automobile Association, also called AAA or “Triple-A.” This organization gave rise to a whole new industry.
What is AAA?
AAA, founded more than 100 years ago, is a membership-based federation of motor clubs that provides its members a variety of services, including roadside assistance and travel planning. It was established with the aim of providing timely and meaningful assistance to travelers in need.Members can contact the AAA whenever their car breaks down, or they’re involved in an accident. AAA will use its expertise to recommend the right solutions. Today, millions of people in the country turn to this organization to help them get around and stay safe on the road.
AAA membership levels
You can benefit from AAA Roadside Assistance only if you’re a paid member. Generally, the annual cost of membership is between $40-$165. The price increases as you go from the standard to premium membership plans.Here are the three levels of service you can go for:
Classic membership
This is the most basic plan of all. When you choose this plan, you can have the AAA change a tire with an inflated spare, perform a battery boost, bring gasoline at the pump rate, and provide lockout services up to $50 for free. In addition, this plan will also tow a vehicle up to five miles for free.Plus membership
When you go with this membership plan, you get services like changing a flat tire with an inflated spare, provide a battery boost if needed, offer free fuel delivery, and give a free lockout service for up to $100. Towing up to 100 miles is also available free of cost.Premier membership
The Premium membership plan offers maximum benefits. Members get a free tire change with an inflated spare and a free battery boost, along with free fuel delivery, no charge for lockout services up to $150, and one 200-mile tow and three 100-mile tows. -
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Top 5 sources for car rentals
Read MoreIf you’re planning on visiting your grandmother in Orlando or have simply decided to take a trip to Vegas, you will be needing a rental car. However, there are a million different options out there making it difficult to trust a service. Fortunately, some websites help you find a trustworthy rental company, compare rates, and book directly. Let’s take a look at where to find affordable and reliable rental cars.
Rentalcars.com
If you’re looking for cheap and trustworthy rental cars, this is the site to visit. After filling in details like pick up and drop location and time, you will be presented with a list of rental car services across different platforms. From car rental compare rates to a wide selection ranging from basic cars to fancy ones, rentalcars.com will help you find the best ride.CarRentals.com
CarRentals.com helps you select from different cars such as sedans, convertible, and even sports cars. You can easily compare rates, filter your options, and book the perfect car for you in three easy steps. You can also add rental protection for around $10/day at the checkout. Unfortunately, drivers under the age of 25 and over 70 may have to pay a surcharge.KAYAK
You can rent everything from hatchbacks and SUVs to luxury models and pick-up trucks at KAYAK. Their site will help you compare rates and find the best deal out of the lot. To help make the searches more personal, you can also filter your searches by cost, brands, and capacity. The best part about this provider is that cancellation fee is $0.Turo
Turo offers everything from everyday cars like a Fiat 500 or Ford Fusion to high-end cars like a Tesla Model S or Porsche 911. They start from around $30/day and go up to around $650/day. Search filter options include the number of seats, cost, and vehicle type. All you need to do to book a vehicle is enter your starting and ending location and date, select the car of your choice, and pay.USA Cars Rental
With this provider, you can find the best deals from leading companies all over the country. They have the cheapest options with no hidden charges. You can filter your searches, compare prices, and select from a variety of cars ranging from hatchbacks to SUVs and convertibles. -
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Top SUVs of 2021
Read MoreBe it a daily commute or a weekend adventure, SUVs are out there to meet everyone’s demands. Loaded with features and decent fuel efficiency, SUVs are always what drive any auto manufacturer’s sales numbers. However, not every SUV makes it to the top level in terms of sales and popularity to becomes a crowd favorite. Even a minor flaw like a mediocre rating when it comes to reliability or even the lack of some popular feature can shove any SUV to the bottom of the list of SUVs. Let us look at 10 of the best SUVs in the country:
Top 10 SUV of 2021
- Ford Escape
- Chevrolet Equinox
- Honda CR-V
- Jeep Cherokee
- Ford Explorer
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Kia Sorento
- Dodge Journey
- Nissan Rogue
- Toyota RAV4
Of this list of 10, let us take a closer look at the top 5 SUVs:
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is an excellent SUV that combines style, comfort, and value. Depending on the customization, the Ford Explorer is the perfect vehicle for six, or even seven, passengers. The SUV comes with many offerings ranging from three different types of engine, which can be opted according to the needs. The rearview camera is an excellent feature that is coupled with the Ford Sync, Ford ensures that the passengers are in no way disappointed.Jeep Cherokee
If you are a fan of the ruggedness offered by the Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Cherokee is just a smaller version of the Grand. The Jeep Cherokee is a crossover that offers five different trim levels, where the customers get to select from four cylinders and an upgraded V6 engine. The Jeep Cherokee is really quiet when compared to other SUVs and performs equally well.Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V has a sleek, sporty design and an option for a turbocharged engine, satisfying almost anyone who has the need for speed. The CR-V comes in four trim levels and the basic standard version offers some decent features which include Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration. The Honda CR-V has that perfect balance between comfort, handling, and generous storage space.Chevrolet Equinox
Many feel an SUV that can serve an entire family’s need is a myth. However, the Chevrolet Equinox is a myth breaker. The 2017 model of Chevrolet’s Equinox comes packed with ample features in its standard version, making it hard to resist for any SUV enthusiast. A seven-inch touch screen, 17-inch wheels, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot with reclining second-row seats makes this a dream car for any family. Plenty of leg room and headroom makes it ideal for elderly family members.Ford Escape
Offering endless customization options, Ford Escape is one of the most versatile SUV options available out there in the market. Be running daily errands or going for an adventure trip, Ford Escape deals with everything with ease making it second to none.
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Your guide to getting FHA loan approvals
Read moreA Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loan is a type of mortgage which is insured by the FHA and is considered one of the most affordable and fastest loans to procure.
Simply put, the borrower needs to be approved by the FHA to get this loan. You may then look for different mortgage rates with different FHA-approved lenders. There are plenty of portals which may help you get fast quotes and you may subsequently take the process ahead with any lender whose rates you have found affordable.
Important guidelines to get an FHA loan approval
Discussed below are a few important aspects to keep in mind while applying for an FHA loan.Credit score
The credit score requirement to get an FHA loan approval is not stringent. The minimum eligible credit score for the same is 580. Even if you do not have a credit history, your lender will need to evaluate your eligibility, based on a non-traditional merged credit. Some borrowers may require a score of 640-680 to be eligible for this loan.While this is a guideline set, many lenders also give a loan to people with a credit score of at least 500.
Debt to income ratio
The debt to income ratio is a critical guideline followed by lenders to evaluate the eligibility of a borrower. It is a way in which lenders (even mortgage lenders) calculate a borrower’s ability to repay the debts, considering their regular incomes. The acceptable limit of this ratio is 31:43 to get an FHA loan approval.Mortgage insurance
Even though getting an approval for an FHA loan seems fairly easy, the real challenge arises in getting two types of mortgage insurances as prerequisites. One insurance needs to be paid fully while the other has to have a provision of being paid in monthly installments.Down payment
The minimum down payment required for an FHA loan approval is 3.5%. While the standard rate for down payment runs at 20%, the 3.5% comes as a great relief for borrowers who cannot afford such a high amount.Other important areas
A lender will look into your employment history, lawful residency in the US, as well as a valid Social Security number (SSN). You would also require to have an appraisal for the property from a verified FHA-approved appraiser.The other requirements differ from lender to lender, and it is always advisable to gather full information about your verified FHA loan lender before applying for a loan.
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3 ways SMA patients and caregivers can maintain a healthy relationship
Read moreThe relationship between a person diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and their caregiver is a two-way street. It is important to remember that both the patient and caregiver have their individual needs that should be communicated clearly. Irrespective of whether the primary caregiver is a parent, friend, or someone who has been hired to take care of the SMA patient, there are a few important things to consider for a healthy relationship between them. Below are three tips for SMA patients to maintain a healthy relationship with their caregivers-
- Informing the caregiver in advance about any schedule changes
SMA patients should remember that their caregivers, whether family, friends or professional caregivers, have their own schedules and needs. One needs to ensure that they don’t make any last-minute changes without informing the caregiver well in advance. A caregiver plans everything according to the SMA patient’s schedule, and any sudden changes might cause problems with the caregiver’s schedule and routine. It is important to remember that the caregiver is likely to have other jobs, people to meet, and other personal errands of their own. Hence, it is essential to inform the caregiver in advance if there are any changes to one’s schedule.
- Conveying one’s needs clearly
If an SMA patient is hiring someone through an agency or via the Internet, it is vital to know that the caregiver has probably had clients with a wide range of needs, levels of independence, and abilities. Hence, it is necessary for the patient to inform the caregiver about what their specific needs are, what tasks they can do, and what tasks they cannot perform. The best way that a caregiver will be able to help a patient properly and cater to all their needs is by just communicating with them. If one is used to doing certain things in a particular manner, let the caregiver know that beforehand so that they are able to do their job thoroughly by keeping their patient’s needs in mind.
- It is okay to have disagreements with the caregiver
When the caregiver is a friend or family member, fights and arguments are inevitable. However, when one has a fight, a confusion, a misunderstanding, or whether there is a simple disagreement with one’s caregiver, one needs to ensure that this tension does not last. It is important to communicate openly and work together towards solving the problem.
- Informing the caregiver in advance about any schedule changes