Time to Get Organized!
It’s never too early to get organized!
Dear Caregivers,
It’s the beginning of the new year, and it’s never too early to begin to get organized for the months to follow. After all, it’s a little cooler, the holidays are behind us, and spring, the time of rejuvenation, is just around the corner.
For many people, perhaps yourself included, this is a time for general organizing of the household: Getting rid of clothes and other items that are no longer needed, re-organizing the kitchen, and in general trying to simplify your life.
As a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, the idea of getting organized takes on a whole new dimension. Certainly, having your life generally in order will make these special tasks less difficult. But there are some specific activities that, taken care of now, will make your and your loved one’s lives far less complicated in the future, which will give you an all-important peace of mind today.
Read on for some ideas.
Getting Help With Your Filing Your Income Tax Returns:
It is never too early to get organized with your finances and get ready to file your taxes. For many people this can seem to be a complicated, confusing, and daunting topic. Fortunately there are several services available for you to help you get through the maze. Here’s how to start. this important issue here.
The Basics of Advance Directives:
In situations where your loved one cannot speak for themselves, medical personnel will turn to the next of kin to get help in making important health decisions. It is important to have your loved one’s wishes of how to respond in a serious medical situation be known in advance, through several documents such as an Advanced Directive and Living Will. Learn more about these important documents and how to create them.
Create a "Plan B":
No family caregiver wants to think they wouldn't be able to help their loved one, but there is a chance that something could happen to you that would make it impossible for you to provide the support that you do now. This makes it critical you identify an individual who would be your best “Plan B” caregiver. This person would be able to quickly take over as an advocate and guardian for your loved one in the event that is needed. Here’s how to create your “Plan B”.
Medication Management Tips for Caregivers:
Getting organized to ensure that your loved one takes their medicine correctly on a regular basis is one of the most important tasks of a caregiver. Here are some tips on how to stay on track.
Fall-Proof Your Home:
Many falls can be prevented. By making some changes to your household environment, you can lower your chances of your loved one falling. Here are some tips on how to “fall-proof” your home.
A Checklist for Moving With Your Loved One:
The height of getting organized comes in the event that you and your loved one need to move to a new home. This process can be overwhelming, particularly when you consider all the entities that need to be notified. However, being proactive and utilizing checklists can help minimize that stress and ensure the various services and systems remain smoothly operating. Here is a list to help guide you.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“The secret of all victory lies in the organization of the non-obvious.”
— Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor
