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“The Truth About Alzheimer’s Disease” Part 3 of 3”
Once the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease has been made, it is important that the patient and care giver understand how the loved one will change over time. Most importantly, the medical counseling needs to address what level of care they need now, as well as what they will need in the future.
If the patient is still able to understand and process information, it is probably a good idea to select an attorney or social worker who can help you fill out forms to designate a Living Will and a Power of Attorney for Health Care Issues and A Power of Attorney to handle Financial matters. Make sure these forms are notarized and that the designated (POA) has access to them. Call a family meeting to let the necessary people know what you want and who you want to make decisions for you, when the time comes. Notify your family of who you’d want to pay your bills for you once you’re unable to. The “Living Will” will express how you choose to live out the remainder of your life, once your condition progresses to cognitive and physical decline. The patient and family will need to consult with the doctor to find out what medical treatment is recommended, and even what clinical drug trials may be available?
Next, the patient and family should discuss what changes may be required now to make the home environment safer? What can the patient still do? What should the caregiver do for them? Perhaps they may need to seek supportive community resources, such as “Adult Day Care” or hire a personal care giver in the home. It would also be wise for the Power of Attorney and patient to understand what living options the patient would prefer later. Some options include Assisted Living, Nursing Home placement, living with children or extended family members or remaining in their own home with help coming in. And as these options are researched, it is important to know what type of long term care insurance benefits, disability insurance, life insurance, health insurance and prescription drug coverage the patient has? Can they afford the long term care option that they have selected? Start comparing programs and resources in advance.
To locate the Alzheimer’s Association chapter nearest to you, call: 1 (800) 272-3900 or visit www.alzheimers-illinois.org . To get help with legal or financial issues for your loved one, call the Center for Disability and Elder Law at (312) 376-1880. For a current list of local care giving agencies, please contact your local Park Forest Health Department at (708) 748-1118 or visit us at 350 Victory Drive to pick up a local list of care giving services.
Jenise Ervin RN, MSN, Director of Public Health
Nurses Plus/ Park Forest Health Department