Planning for the Future
IT TAKES PLANNING
Legal planning
Creating necessary legal documents does not imply that a diagnosed individual’s rights are immediately revoked. Legal specifications documented ahead of time are not implemented until someone living with the disease legally no longer has the capacity to make decisions.
Legal planning should include:
• Taking inventory of existing legal documents, reviewing and making necessary updates
• Making legal plans for finances and property
• Putting plans in place for enacting your future health care and long-term care preferences
• Naming another person to make decisions on your behalf when you no longer can*
Financial planning
To get started on financial planning
Identify family members or trusted individuals who should be included in financial plans. Decide who can help with routine financial responsibilities, such as bill paying and completing tax returns, in the future.
Identify costs of care, considering what you may incur now and in the future.
Become familiar with your health insurance policy, check on long-term care costs and whether future costs will be covered and to what extent.
What care is available?
Once you have a diagnosis, you will be able to receive care, whether that be in a facility or in your home. It is important to partner with health care providers to ensure proper care, newest care, and treatment options. The resources available to you will depend on the county you live in. The types of care you may qualify for include In Home Social Services (IHSS), home and community-based services or caregiver support for loved ones. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging for resources nearest and available to you.
Healthy living after a diagnosis
A healthy lifestyle can greatly impact your experience living with Alzheimer’s Disease. Studies show that those with Alzheimer’s Disease can live as long as 20 years after diagnosis. It’s important to plan for that future by:
Get Regular Medical Care
That includes regular checkups with a physician and taking any prescribed medications.
Do Financial, Legal and Long-Term Care Planning
Prepare or update your living will, health care power of attorney, and financial power of attorney.
Stay Healthy
Get regular exercise, eat a well-balanced diet and get enough rest.
Establish a Routine
Stick to familiar places for errands and leisure activities.
Stay Safe
Identify someone who can visit regularly and act as an emergency contact, talk to your doctor if you notice yourself driving unsafely.
Get Help if You Need It
Ask trusted family members or friends to help with routine tasks like cooking, paying bills or transportation.