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We are in the holiday season. The season when people spend time with their family and friends. It is a time to celebrate traditions. Holidays are also the time of year when you realize that your aging loved one may not be doing as great as they said they were. You notice changes in someone, such as limitations to their physical or cognitive condition, that you didn’t see previously. You may need to have a conversation with the person. It can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry; STAGES is here to help you.
The knee-jerk reaction may be to schedule a doctor’s appointment, but you may want to look into other options. Keep in mind that falls are common for adults 65+. Therefore, the first thing you need to evaluate is their living situation. An Aging Care Manager can help assess a person’s home and make recommendations and referrals. Most people want to age in place, so the question becomes, should you bring in a caregiver? Should you look into a reverse mortgage to help pay expenses? If aging in place does not look like an option, consult a Senior Placement Specialist about the various housing options. The point is that there are professionals you can consult to help you figure out these questions.
It would be best to ensure the person has all their legal documents in place and up-to-date. That includes a Power of Attorney and Medical Power of Attorney document. Getting these legal documents in place does not mean they go into effect immediately. Both Power of Attorney documents go into effect once a person steps down or is deemed incapacitated. In addition, it would be beneficial if they had their will in place and looked into establishing a trust, although trusts do not apply to everyone. Establishing legal documents while the person is of sound mind secures the person’s wishes. It lets everyone know the documents are in place, and it’s a way of starting the conversation to ensure everyone understands the person’s wishes. Anyone assigned to a legal role has a fiduciary duty to that person, so start the conversation. Furthermore, suppose a person does not want their family or friends to handle their affairs. In that case, they can always hire a Fiduciary who can be their Power of Attorney, Trustee, or Executor.
Understanding one’s medical status is essential. Therefore, please work with the person by learning their medical history, diagnosis, and which medications/vitamins/supplements they are taking, including dosage and regime. Most importantly, know their allergies. Also, learn about their doctors, including names, contact information, and what they are treating. It may be beneficial to accompany the person to their medical appointments, but that depends on the person and your situation.
Most people need to realize they have choices regarding medical and non-medical treatment. Granted, there may be limited choices because of one’s insurance and available services depending on where they live, but you still have choices. What does this mean? You can choose which doctor you want to see within your network. In addition, you have the option of which caregiving agency you use. You can choose which home health agency or skilled nursing agency you use. Furthermore, you can select which durable medical equipment company you use. The point is that it’s okay to ask questions and seek resources, and it’s okay to say you would prefer working with someone else.
Enjoy your holiday season with your loved ones!
STAGES wants you to know there are professionals to help you and your aging loved one.
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