Legal Documents: There are three crucial documents that need to be drawn up, ideally while your loved one can still talk coherently and represent themself: a living will, a durable power of attorney for health care, and a durable financial power of attorney. Contact Senior Transitions if you need help caring for your aging parent or grandparent by calling (850) 894-6720.
Support System: Making a plan to share as much of your loved one’s care with others is best done sooner rather than later. You’re not asking them to become caregivers, you’re asking them to support you as a caregiver. Things like shopping and cooking a couple times a month, stepping in to take them to their appointments, or even just spending time with them while you take some time for yourself can make a huge difference. Contact Senior Transitions if you need help caring for your aging parent or grandparent by calling (850) 894-6720.
Slow Immersion: Becoming a caregiver doesn’t happen overnight. You’ll need to slowly start taking over the jobs your loved one has always done and start small. Paying bills, cooking meals every once in a while, laundry, and driving when you go out are just a few examples. As the dementia progresses this list will grow. Contact Senior Transitions if you need help caring for your aging parent or grandparent by calling (850) 894-6720.
Everyone benefits when the whole family can stay connected, and in the last couple of years the best way to do this is through technology that Seniors typically have a difficult time understanding. For Joe and his family, buying him a tablet and teaching him how to use it was the best decision they could have made. Helping Seniors stay connected with their families may take some time but, with an open mind, it can be fun along the way!
Crucial Questions: The following are a few examples of great questions to ask your doctor after a diagnosis: What are some reasons for the changes I’ve seen? What medicines help with memory loss? Is there help to pay for that medicine? What services does my down have to help with care? When will things like living alone and driving become dangerous? Contact Senior Transitions if you need help caring for your aging parent or grandparent by calling (850) 894-6720.
