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Hold regular discussions with your loved one about their preferences as they age. |
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Lear as much as you can about your loved one’s condition. |
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Speak to with the doctor about the diagnosis. |
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Contact local agencies such as Area Agency on Aging or Alzheimer’s Association |
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Hold a family meeting even with those out of the area to discuss how all of you will provide or coordinate care for you loved one. |
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Complete an inventory of important papers and records. |
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Make a list of your loved one’s medical information including doctors, hospitals, past health conditions and current medications. |
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Make a list of emergency contact information and distribute to family and friends. |
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Investigate housing options available in your community. |
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Start a journal to express your feelings and thoughts. |
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Learn about how to correctly care for you loved one including lifting, transferring, or skin care. |
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Accept and seek help so you can get some time off by finding resources among friends and the community. Consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide assistance with cooking, cleaning, companionship, or any other activities of daily living. |
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Make a list of how people can help. |
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Make a list of people who can give support to you and your loved one. |
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Take care of yourself. Make your health priority one. |
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Set aside time for yourself everyday to do something you enjoy or that relaxes you. |
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Get enough sleep. |
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Eat a healthy diet. |
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Talk about your feelings by attending a support group, talking to a friend or seeking counseling. |
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Assess your own limits emotionally, financially, physically, and spiritually. This will help identify when you need help. |
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Don’t give in to the guilt you may be feeling by taking care of yourself. |
