Mother’s Day and Father’s Day have passed, a time when we reconnect with family who we may not have seen for some time, health and behavior changes in the elderly may also become more noticeable.
So what can or should you be doing? A physical and neurological exam can identify any medical issues. This may be a good time to assess the options available that will allow your loved one to continue to live a full, happy and safe life. Suggestions may include a home health aide, adult day care, and personal organizer to help with money management.
If your loved one can no longer live alone, possible alternative living arrangements include another family member’s home, assisted living, senior housing or nursing home. Each choice has pros and cons and expense is often an issue. Planning should be done as early as possible to determine what government benefits can be used to help pay the cost, such as Medicare, Medicaid and Veteran’s benefits.
This may be a good opportunity to begin discussing these difficult decisions. Remember, there are resources available to you. All you need to do is find them or consult with someone knowledgeable, such as an elder care attorney, who can help point you in the right direction. But, don’t put it off till next year. By that time you may be dealing with a full blown crisis. Call today for a consultation. Michele Blanchard, attorney at law, 985-641-4010.