For Caregivers: Future Planning for People with Dementia

Legal and financial planning is always a good idea. But it's even more vital when a loved one has dementia. How will finances be handled? Who will pay bills? Talking about these matters can be hard. So you may wish to seek advice from professionals. These include financial planners, insurance agents, estate-planning attorneys, and social workers.

This document transfers financial and legal power from your loved one to another person. It could be you. Or it could be some other person who can make decisions in your loved one's best interest.

These documents spell out the kinds of medical treatment your loved one wants—or doesn't want—in the future. Keep them with your loved one's medical records.

Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers all limit the types of care they will cover. Talk with a social worker about how to handle the costs of long-term care.

Talk with your loved one about becoming a cosigner on their financial accounts. This helps make sure bills are paid. And it allows you to keep track of spending.

As your loved one's needs change, so will your role as caregiver. At first, you may only need to help with minor tasks. Later, your loved one may need someone with them all the time. Planning for these changes now can make it easier to cope. Start by talking with family and friends. What tasks can they help with? Who will care for your loved one if you become ill? You can also learn about options for professional care. That way, it's easier to move to the next step when you need to.

Talk with a social worker, health care providers, or a local support agency about options for care. These may include one or more of the following:

• Adult daycare provides supervised care during the day.
• Home health aides can be hired part-time. Or they can be hired as live-in caregivers.
• Assisted living facilities can provide a home and support. They are for people who need moderate amounts of help.
• Nursing homes provide constant care.