Caregiver’s Plan B
No family caregiver wants to think they wouldn't be able to help their loved one, but the chance is that something could happen to you that would make it impossible for you to provide the care support you do now. It is 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.
After identifying your Plan B caregiver and completing a full “Caregiving Plan B,” share that information with your family, your loved one’s medical providers, and other caregivers. Even if only needed temporarily it will be a great help to those stepping into the caregiver role. Revisit the plan every 6-12 months or as indicated by significant changes in your loved one's illness or changes in other family circumstances.
Much like a "Last Will and Testament," a "Caregiving Plan B" helps those who need to step in have a clear idea of your wishes, and since you are the advocate and voice for your loved one, they know their wishes as well. Imagine this as your most valuable insurance to date. Like all insurance, the hope is you will never need this, but having it should leave you confident your loved one will have care even if you cannot provide it.
As family members, we all have roles we play, and every family manages things in their way. You and your partner may split things 50/50, or you may be the family cook, and your partner is in charge of the outdoor yard maintenance. Undoubtedly there have been changes, and if you are like most family caregivers, you now have more responsibilities.
To start, think about the answers to these key questions.
What does my Loved One need… if I cannot provide care?
Who is the best “Plan B” caregiver for my Loved One?
What do I need to do to prepare for that possibility?
What can I do to make the transition easier on my Loved One?
Here are two worksheets to help you create your Caregiver’s Plan B:
This first worksheet is to help you figure out what caregiving needs you have at this point in time.
This second worksheet is a full Plan B where you can record all the particulars of your Plan B and then share as needed with others...especially the person who is the main "Plan B" caregiver who would take over in the event the first caregiver can no longer be the caregiver.
