Whenever possible, involve the person who is sick or disabled in the planning. Even if it’s uncomfortable for you to discuss money, wills, sickness, and death, you will avoid problems later on and will help make sure you’re doing the right thing for both of you. Decision-making before a crisis arises is much easier than trying to make important decisions when everyone is stressed or when decisions need to be made immediately.
Most professionals strongly recommend that all adults have a durable power of attorney—someone to make decisions in case the person becomes unable to do so. Encourage the person you care for to consider taking this step.
Getting Started
Have an open discussion with everyone involved. Acknowledge that while these are difficult topics to discuss, it is important to know what someone expects. Encourage the person who needs care to express his wishes about health care, living arrangements, finances and decision-making.
Ask all family members what they expect or assume about the future. You can use some of the questions listed in the side bar to help get you started. Start with the least controversial issues. If a topic becomes heated, try to find some point you all agree on. If you’re concerned that family conflicts could make planning difficult, chances are the conflicts would be worse during a crisis and decisions would be even more difficult.
Take An Inventory
Help the person make a list of her assets and update it regularly. Make copies and let a trusted person know where they are. Include:
- Income
- Bank accounts
- Property
- Certificates of deposit
- Money market accounts
- Stocks and bonds
- Retiree or pension benefits
- Promissory notes
- Contents of safe deposit boxes
- Contracts
- Insurance policies
Consult An Attorney
Many people have never hired an attorney or thought they needed one. But a long-term illness or disability can change lives dramatically, and it is helpful to have expert advice to avoid possible devastating effects on you or your family.
Your needs will determine what kind of lawyer will be best. Perhaps a lawyer who practices general law will be able to do everything that’s required. But if the financial situation is more complicated, you may need a lawyer with experience in estate planning to help you sort through income, property, bank accounts, and other assets. Lawyers who specialize in elder law are most familiar with disability laws and with Medicare and Medicaid eligibility and benefits.
If you need help finding a lawyer, ask trusted friends and associates for recommendations. Other professionals like bankers, accountants, and insurance agents may also have suggestions. Local bar associations often have referral services to help you find a lawyer with expertise in the area you need.
What kind of care do you want if you become terminally ill; who will make decisions for you if you’re unable; how will you pay for long-term care if you need it? It’s never too soon to make choices that will greatly affect you and the people you love.
Planning for tomorrow makes good sense. You can ease some of your worries by knowing you have a plan for the “what ifs”?
Source: http://www.caregiverslibrary.org
Contact Pure Home Care Services at (586) 293-2457 today! If you live in Macomb County or the surrounding area, we can help you care for your loved ones.