Your world crashed when your dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. While he’s okay at home for now, what about the future? You also want to focus on the time you have left with him. Definitely focus on quality time now, but there are simple changes you can make now to prepare for the future.

Arrange Powers of Attorney While He’s Still Legally Able.

Medical and financial powers of attorney are essential. An elder care lawyer needs to be convinced that your dad is making these decisions on his own and knows what he’s signing away. If the memory loss becomes too much, it may be impossible to get these measures in place.

Make sure you’re clear on what measures your dad wants to be taken when he cannot make medical decisions on his own. When your dad decides who he wants to handle his financial matters, make sure he accompanies that person to the bank to get added as a co-owner of any accounts.

Discuss the Situation with Social Security.

The Social Security Administration does not accept a financial power of attorney documents. In order to handle any matters regarding SSI payments, someone must be named Representative Payee. To do so, your dad and the person applying to be a Representative Payee must go to a Social Security office and apply in person.

Install Door and Window Alarms Now.

It’s unlikely your dad is going to wander for a while, but you’ll want to add alarms. If a door or window is opened, the alarm goes off. You’ll know your dad is heading outside and can supervise. It’s the best way to prevent him from wandering off.

Set Up Elderly Care Services Sooner Rather Than Later.

Caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s is hard work. You’ll be stressed, emotional, and exhausted. Gather the family to discuss who has the time to take a shift, who can help with home upkeep, and who can help with meals. Still, you’ll need the help of an expert in the latter stages.

As Alzheimer’s progresses, your dad’s going to need help bathing and toileting. He’ll likely reach a point where he has to wear an adult diaper. Are you really going to be able to change his diapers? Would he want you to?

Hiring a caregiver is often necessary for everyone’s comfort. Your dad is not going to want you seeing him at his worst. You’ll find it hard to see your parent become frustrated, scared of you, and unwilling to eat. Call an elderly care service to discuss the other services they offer for Alzheimer’s patients and their families.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elderly care in Flowery Branch, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Sources:

https://www.ssa.gov/payee/faqrep.htm

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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