Caring for an aging loved one can be wonderful, but there may also be difficult times, especially if your loved one develops dementia and you have to step in to make decisions on their behalf. These choices could also come with financial and legal challenges involving other family members, healthcare facilities, and businesses. It’s important to understand how to handle these complications and determine who’s responsible for a senior family member with dementia.
Family & Friends
Children of seniors with dementia generally assume the role of caregiver unless they agree to appoint a medical facility or other individual to the role, such as a nursing home or a close friend or family member. When the role is legally given to you, whether through mutual agreement or a court of law, you’re typically referred to as having a general power of attorney (POA).
A durable POA is a legal role given to those caring for individuals who are incapacitated. Dementia is a condition that may lead to incapacitation if your loved one is unable to understand his or her decisions thoroughly, including the consequences that relate to medical care, financial responsibilities, andpersonal affairs.While a general POA and a durable POA expire upon death, the latter is operational throughout incapacity. In contrast, the person with a general POA cannot make decisions once the senior is declared incapacitated by medical professionals.
Families who are caring for aging loved ones with dementia can get the personalized support they need with Concierge Client Care from Companioa by IOA. Our three distinct service offerings—Personal Concierge, Caregiver Coaching, and Care Management—ensure the highest level of compassionate professional concierge senior care that’s tailored to each client’s unique needs. We can be your trusted partner, providing the expertise and attention to detail that will help you navigate the complexities of dementia care.
Responsibilities
Keeping your parent on a regular routine is crucial because it can prevent dementia from progressing quickly. Keep your loved one’s mind active. This includes asking questions respectfully, simply, and straightforwardly along with encouraging your loved one to safely take on as many tasks as possible without being overwhelmed. When you cannot meet these needs, you must find family and friends to step in or hire a professional familiar with dementia care.
Caring for senior loved ones with dementia can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in dementia care, but with caregiver coaching from the Certified Dementia Practitioners at Companioa by Institute on Aging (IOA), they can learn to navigate the evolving journey of their loved ones’ dementia with expert guidance and emotional support. For only $250 per month, families can benefit from home safety assessments, customized action plans, biweekly check-ins, and caregiver support groups that Caregiver Coaching services provide.
Managing Medications
Legal responsibilities include more than finances, daily cleaning, bathing, and companionship. You’re also responsible for managing your loved one’s medication intake. Seniors with dementia may have difficulty remembering when to take a prescription and how much of that medication to take.
It’s up to you to help with medications, which includes separating pills and other medicines accurately, keeping an eligible and easy-to-follow time management system, and monitoring your loved one’s reaction to the prescriptions. Watching your loved one’s health is essential, as there are different treatments for various stages of the condition. For instance, donepezil can be taken during all stages of the condition. For advanced dementia, there’s a skin patch of rivastigmine that can be used to treat more severe cases.
Speaking with Legal Professionals
If your loved one is mentally stable or hasn’t yet been diagnosed with dementia, suggest writing out a will listing his or her wishes. Always speak with a legal professional to determine what rights and responsibilities you have when it comes to caring for an elderly parent with dementia. This individual can explain your options to ensure your parent receives the best care and give you more insight into your responsibilities.At Companioa by IOA, our Concierge Client Care services include high-quality, compassionate dementia care management. Our licensed Care Managers advocate for families, offering personalized care planning, medical coordination, lifestyle assistance, and improved family communication. With our expert guidance, families are able to navigate healthcare complexities and access the best resources for their loved ones’ wellbeing. To create a customized care plan for your loved one, reach out to learn more about our Concierge Client Care services today at (415) 750-4111.