Caring for someone with dementia can be a daunting task. Unfortunately, as the person's condition progresses, care needs can become more complicated over time. It is important to plan ahead when making decisions about who will take on care responsibilities, which services should be provided, and how much money will be committed to cover costs. Here's what to know about dementia care planning, courtesy of Senior Helpers Collinsville.
How to Recognize When a Senior Needs Additional Help
Before beginning a dementia care plan, it is important to recognize when a senior needs additional help. Some common signs that a person might need assistance include memory lapses, personality changes, difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs), and problems communicating. If you notice any or all of these, it's time to start talking about how best to support the individual.
Talk With Doctors
An important first step is to have a conversation with the senior's doctors. This can help you chart out an effective plan by reviewing the individual's health needs and potential treatments. It can give you some valuable insight into your senior loved one's current plan of care and what lies ahead. All of this will allow you to build a better care plan. Additionally, you may want to research dementia-specific organizations or resources in your area.
Build a Support System
The next step is to assess the senior's living environment and build a support system. The caregiver should determine if the home is safe for independent living and if additional help – either professional or from family members – may be needed. If a facility or other structured environment would better suit the person's needs, this conversation should begin early on in the planning process as well.
Make a Financial Plan
The final step is to determine how much money will be needed for costs associated with care, such as living expenses and professional services. An easy way of doing this is by creating a financial plan. This document could list all the potential costs associated with providing care. This should include budgeting for health insurance, transportation, food, and more.
Senior Helpers Can Provide Support and Assistance
Caring for a loved one with dementia is no easy task, but having an effective care plan in place will make it easier. Planning ahead can help you feel more confident that the senior has what they need to stay safe and healthy while still maintaining as much independence as possible.
If you're caring for someone with dementia, Senior Helpers Collinsville offers comprehensive senior care services that can benefit both you and your loved one. We have the experience you need to feel comfortable and confident that your senior loved one is living a healthy, happy life. Contact us today for information about setting up a customized plan of care for your senior loved one in the Alton, Bethalto, Cottage Hills, East Alton, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, Granite City, Hartford, Lovejoy, and Madison areas.