Here is a tip for you and your family when caring for elderly parents…
More and more Baby Boomers are finding themselves in a juggling act. Over one quarter of America’s families juggle caring for their elderly parents, raising their families and working. To cope with these new pressures families need to be prepared by adopting a ‘Family Plan.’
One of the greatest fears of the elderly is losing their control, independence, and dignity. Being proactive in planning for their long term wishes through a Family Plan helps eliminate these fears. The most important topic to address in a Family Plan is location; where do they wish to reside? Whether it is a nursing home, assisted living facility, their home, or your home, cost and quality of life will always be the central issues. Investigate the pros and cons of each option and allow your parents to ultimately decide.
The first step in developing a Family Plan is to arrange a discussion with your family members. Whether it is over the internet, by phone, or in person, each willing and able family member should be involved. When you meet, roles and responsibilities should be discussed.
- Primary Caregiver- Who will oversee the day to day care?
- Backup Caregiver- Who will support the primary caregiver?
- Emergency Coordinator – Who will compile and maintain lists of personal information, medical provider information, social information (friends, clergy), service providers (attorney, accountant) and medications (dosages and reasons prescribed)?
- Legal Coordinator – Who will develop and compile the necessary legal documents, such as, Advanced Directives and Wills?
- Financial Overseer – Who will make sure bills are paid?
While there is no one size fits all Family Plan, these roles apply to most families who care for elderly loved ones. Having a family plan developed before a crisis occurs helps ensure that you and your family members make decisions that will be in the best interests of your parents and loved ones. Stay at Home offers Family Consultative services to help you develop your own Family Plan. To discuss a Family Plan with your local Stay At Home administrator, please fill-out the form on your right. We look forward to talking with you.