It is not easy to fully grasp all the emotions that cascade when you learn that a cherished loved one has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Then, add to those whirling emotions the realization that you cannot physically or mentally cope with the responsibilities required to care for them. Alzheimer’s may have been diagnosed for a particular family member, but in many ways, it attaches itself to entire families as each of them is affected by its presence.
Did you make a promise to your father that you would never place him in a care facility? Perhaps you agreed to look after your mother no matter how severe her Alzheimer’s disease symptoms became. But when reality hit, you discovered that to provide the dementia therapy they required, you needed help.
Difficult decisions must be made and seldom are families prepared to make them. Medical, financial, and legal decisions and planning for home care will suddenly have to be addressed. It is best to begin the planning and decision-making as early as possible and have your loved one able to participate in the planning.
Types of Concerns that You Will Have to Address
A medical power of attorney, mental health power of attorney, and financial power of attorney are all forms of legal papers that grant you the ability to make health-care decisions and handle finances for your loved one if necessary. These documents empower you to act in these situations because when your family member is no longer able to make decisions or handle finances, someone must do it.
You will have to decide on the type of care that is best for your loved one. The severity of the illness, needs, and preferences must be taken into consideration when making this decision.
You will also be tasked with the monumental responsibility of managing your loved one’s finances. This includes their insurance, investments, Social Security, and any other income they may have.
Trying to cope with a loved one’s Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis is never easy. There are so many things to think about and so many decisions to be made.
Make Certain that Your Loved One Will Receive the Care They Want
Outside assistance will be required at some point as dementia progresses and the person’s cognitive abilities and capacity to function deteriorates. When gait, balance, and daily activities difficulties increase, additional care may be required in a home or nursing facility.
You’ll have to figure out the cost of assisted living or in-home care in your loved one’s preferred community. Learn everything you can about long-term care insurance and veterans’ benefits. You may also wish to learn more about your state’s long-term care Medicaid service requirements.
It’s important to be prepared for the possibility that your loved one will need more care as their dementia progresses. Outside assistance may be required at some point, either in the form of assisted living or in-home care. The cost of these services can vary depending on the community you live in, so it’s important to do your research and figure out what the options are in your area.
If these situations occur, begin planning as early as possible. Call upon the cooperation and assistance of family and friends because you will need their support and help.
