When diagnosed with dementia, most people feel shocked and surprised and sorely unprepared for future care needs. But after receiving this type of diagnosis, preparing for the future becomes immensely important. If you or someone you love has dementia, immediately seek guidance for future care. For help in taking the right steps to develop a plan, seek help from an estate planning and elder law attorney, such as Vic Skvarna at Skvarna Law. And, in the meantime, take these steps:
1. Get to Know the Diagnosis
When your loved is diagnosed with dementia, learn as much as possible about the diagnosis and how it will affect everyone involved. Attend doctor appointments so you understand relevant tests and diagnoses. Prepare a list of questions to ask and get input about long-term care needs. If doctors fail to address your concerns, seek resources from reputable sources, such as Dementia Action Alliance (DAA), the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)and the Dementia Society of America (DSA). Knowledge can empower you to legally plan for your loved one’s care.
2. Discuss Care Planning
Family unity will help you meet the needs of your affected loved one. Communicate clearly and seek input from all interested parties. This includes listening to the wishes of your loved one, even as they may be struggling with confusion and disorientation. During the process, consider present and future needs. Make plans together about how care needs will be met. Remember to be patient with family members. The diagnosis of dementia affects everyone differently.
3. Make Legal and Financial Decisions
Deciding on who to designate as the person authorized to make health care and financial decisions for the dementia patient is a major part of the plan. In addition, plans for long-term care execution and payment should be put into place. An elder law attorney can help you with these difficult decisions. An estate attorney can assess resources, find the best way to pay for long term care, and help the family to secure necessary documents. The designated Healthcare Power of Attorney will make health care decisions when your loved one is no longer able. A Financial Power of Attorney will enable the designee to execute financial affairs.
4. Explore Long-Term Care Options
Care change over time. In the beginning stages of dementia, in-home respite or companion care, home health services, and adult day cares may prove sufficient. However, care needs increase as the disease progresses. At this point, facility care may become necessary. Familiarize yourself with the differences between various types of centers to select and apply for the one that best meets your family’s needs. Options include nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care centers.
A dementia diagnosis can take everyone off guard. So, be careful not to waste time in starting your journey to understand and prepare for a future after diagnosis. Planning can reduce stress and allow family members to support their loved one who has dementia. Seek proper guidance from attorneys and relevant support organizations.
About Skvarna Law
If your loved one has dementia, give us a call to discuss how we can help (909) 608-7671. We operate offices in Glendora and Upland, California and provide legal services for individuals living in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside Counties. This includes the cities of Upland, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Colton, Rialto, Chino, Chino Hills, Glendora, Claremont, Montclair, Pomona, La Verne, San Dimas, Azusa, Covina, West Covina, Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Corona, Norco & Mira Loma. Visit SkvarnaLaw.com to learn more.
