Until a Crisis!!

Every day we get calls after a crisis has happened and families are now trying to get information regarding their parents. We hear it all. "They have been fine", "They refused for us to help", "We thought they were doing just fine until...."

I can't say this enough. Please, Please Please find out what your parents are doing and act before there is a crisis. Honestly what are they going to do, Ground you??? If they don't agree?

1. Long-Term Care Policies

If your parents have a policy learn what the policy covers BEFORE there is an event!!! Often there is an elimination period, know what that is. There is a daily amount that is paid out for care. They DON'T provide the care they are simply a payor source. Know where the policy is and call an agent to discuss what the benefit is BEFORE there is a crisis.

2. Multiple Physicians that Don't talk to each other

We hear this all the time. If you feel this is going on and you aren't getting the information you need bring an expert in before there is a crisis. Unfortunately. there is limited communication between physician groups and a hospitalization will create another group unknown to your parents that are now involved.

3. My Parents Are Refusing Help

Long before your parents ever need help sit down and have a conversation with them. Ask them what would you like when you are having difficulties managing the house. Driving the car. We recently had a family member tell us that their parents agreed that they got lost driving to their children's home when going there. Don't wait until the police are out looking for them or worse get into a car accident. Again your roles are now reversed and you either will help or wait until something terrible happens.

4. Be Alert and Aware of Changes

When your parents are in the 80's and you see that they are failing, addressing those needs as they happen is a better way to manage than having them multiple to falling at home, unable to drive safely, inability to make meals and eat so there is weight loss that you have witnessed. Be proactive again your parents aren't going to ground you. In some way, they will be grateful that you intervened.

5. Stop Ignoring the Obvious

Stop ignoring the obvious. Get help for them before they fall or loose enough weight that you are concerned. Make an appointment with their doctor, go to the appointment and share your concerns with the doctor. They can help you do the right thing.

It's very frustrating when we hear the same stories over and over again of families who haven't done anything because they say they can't. I disagree. You can and you should. If you don't know how. get a professional in to help before there is a crisis because there will be a crisis, it's just a matter of time.

Sharon Gauthier RN/MSN

Certified Dementia Practitioner

PAFY, Incl

www.patientadvocateforyou.com