Have you recently received the distressing news that your loved one has Alzheimer’s Disease? Having an Alzheimer’s Disease diagnosis can be a daunting experience, both for the individual diagnosed and for their loved ones. Be aware that as the disease progresses, it will create challenges on multiple fronts, making a supportive network essential. With the recent diagnosis of your loved one, we know you may have many questions.
November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and, unfortunately, research tells us there are over 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s Disease with 3 million new cases diagnosed each year. We want to share and discuss three ways you can stand by your loved one and support them as they navigate this challenging time.
- Learn everything you can about the disease. Understanding the nature of Alzheimer’s is crucial when supporting your loved one. Educate yourself with the progression of the disease, potential symptoms, and treatments. Resources like the Alzheimer’s Association provide valuable insights. This knowledge will not only equip you to assist your loved one but will also foster empathy and patience, which you will need because often there can be changes in mood and behavior. Be sure to engage your loved one in activities that they enjoy, like listening to music, crafting, or taking walks. These activities can help your loved one to maintain their cognitive function and offer moments of joy.
- Be sure to communicate often with your loved one and have a safe and predictable environment for them. Encourage open and regular conversations with your loved one. While it may be difficult, discussing their feelings, fears, and concerns about the diagnosis is crucial. It gives them an opportunity to express themselves and reinforces the fact that they are not facing this challenge alone. As Alzheimer’s Disease progresses, familiar surroundings can provide comfort. Making their environment safe and predictable can prevent potential accidents. This might involve removing clutter, clearly labeling items, and using alarms or reminders for important tasks. And finally, consider joining a support group for Alzheimer’s caregivers, seeking counseling, or simply setting aside time for self-care. Your well-being directly influences the quality of care you can provide.
- Be sure the Texas estate planning of your loved one is current and accurate. Legal and financial preparations are essential for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. They will want to work with an experienced Texas estate planning attorney to make certain that their estate planning is up-to-date. This includes having a current last will and testament or trust agreement, designating power of attorney, and ensuring that advanced medical directives are in place. When you consult with a Texas estate planning attorney who specializes in estate planning and elder law, they can provide guidance tailored to your loved one’s needs, ensuring that their wishes are honored and their assets protected.
We know this blog may raise more questions than it answers and we want to answer them. We strive to bring families closer and make businesses stronger through legal planning. Attorney Gerald Winters is proud to serve the community of Round Rock, Texas, and the Greater Austin area in Estate Planning, Probate and Estate Administration, Elder Law, Business Consulting, and Tax Planning. Whether you run a small business or a nonprofit or are an individual looking to improve your financial security, Gerald Winters is here to help you create a customized plan for your future. We encourage you to contact us today.
