It’s a conversation that most of us want to avoid. There is no doubt, however, that the older we get, the more concerned we need to be about our health. For many of us who are caregivers and/or live with elderly loved ones, the conversations come too late. Being hit with the shock that Mom can no longer take care of herself is hard enough when you’ve considered the possibility in advance. Not having a plan in place can make caregiving extremely difficult.
Have conversations with your family.
The first step to being able to plan for the future care of a loved one is to have that often-difficult-to-have conversation. Who do you want to act as your power of attorney? Would you feel comfortable living in a long-term care facility? Do you wish to age in place? Should we look into at-home care? Would you prefer a family member look after you? These and so many other questions just like them need to be answered during your talks with your loved ones.
As Molly Wisniewski reports on SixtyAndMe.com, “a recent study by the University of Minnesota found that only 40 percent of Americans aged 40 to 65 think it’s likely that they will need long-term health care services. When asked who would provide their care if they needed it, many people based their answer on current living arrangements, which did not account for changes in family dynamics or children moving away.”
Reduce caregiver burden.
Make no mistake about it. The act of caregiving is tough for both the recipient and the provider. Recipients often feel senses of anger, embarrassment and shame because they are no longer independent. Naturally, caregivers are often overwhelmed with both the physical and emotional strains that come with being responsible for another person’s well-being. According to People’s Law School, when plans are made well in advance of the care being needed, it greatly reduces stress.
“Research shows that planning for your health care results in better outcomes for family members and caregivers,” reports their website, “Planning reduces the burden of decision-making, relieves anxiety and depressive symptoms, and makes people more satisfied with the care provided.”
Keep the courts out of it.
Without putting a specific plan in place for your future care, you may take the power entirely out of your loved ones’ hands. With nothing in writing to legally prove your wishes for your care, you may unintentionally get the law involved. People’s Law School informs us that no one has the automatic authority to make legal, financial or even personal care decisions for you if you become incapable.
“As a last resort, a family member or friend may need to apply to court to get the authority to make decisions for you,” their website explains, “To do this, they’ll need to ask the court to appoint them as your committee. A committee has the same rights and powers over your affairs as you would if you were capable.”
Work with professionals.
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we care a great deal about helping people plan for their future care. We have a wide variety of mobility devices and home accessibility renovations to help our clients live comfortably and in good health. We would be happy to discuss them with you.
Our team always ensures that you have the complete picture to make an informed decision. You will know all of the possible options so that you can choose which solution is best for you. For more information, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
