No Time Like the Present
Dear Caregivers,
I'll admit it: The younger version of me was prone to procrastination. More than once, I paid the price. Nothing too serious, but enough to learn that putting off difficult tasks often makes them harder later.
Years later, as a physician working with families facing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, I've seen the same challenge arise again and again. In fact, one of the first resources I created for NAN was called “Caregiver’s Plan B.”
No matter where your loved one is in their journey, there are opportunities to plan ahead and reduce future stress. While no plan can remove the challenges these illnesses bring, thoughtful preparation can make the road ahead a little easier.
For families in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's disease, this is especially important. Early on, your loved one may still be able to share their wishes, participate in decisions, and help shape plans for the future. Those conversations can have a lasting impact on both their care and your caregiving journey.
Your NAN Navigator is here to help. The resources below can help you get started today—because when it comes to planning there is no time like the present.
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. Here's an overview.
Caregiver’s Plan B:
No family caregiver wants to think they wouldn't be able to help their loved one, but the chance that something could happen to you that would make it impossible for you to provide the care support you do now makes it critical you identify an individual who is the best “Plan B” caregiver, able to quickly take over as advocate and guardian for your Loved One in the event that is needed. Here's how to do it.
Finding your Caregiving Village:
There is a lot we can all learn from each other as we endure our individual journeys as caregivers. There are some needs and feelings that are universal and learning how others manage and navigate can often be hugely comforting. Here's how to start.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
— Lao Tzu
