Facing
the problem of the aging of a loved one is difficult and it brings
with it many areas of concern that must be dealt with in order
to reduce the inherent risks of aging.
Few people have the resources or knowledge of how to deal with
the issues at hand while still preserving the autonomy of the
elderly person. It is even more difficult if there is a geographic
barrier.
Often times family members do no agree as to what needs to
be done, or how to achieve it. Each person has a different perspective
of how to accomplish the task of instituting services. Past
family problems may hamper judgments.
Stereotypical images of the elderly often make it difficult
to be objective as to the real need for assistance or intervention.
Caregivers, elders, physicians, and family should all operate
as a team.
Organizing a family meeting and assessing the immediate and future
needs of the elderly person is one of our services. Some of the
areas covered are:
- Assessing the current situation, struggles and successes.
- How to help your elderly loved one and yourself as a caregiver.
- Financially what is feasible
a. Reality vs. emotions
b. Inventory of assets
c. Budget
- Ways to manage stress among siblings
a. Who can cope with certain issues
- Surrogate decision making
a. Who should be in command
- Keeping focused on the best interest of the elder
- What happens when the money runs out
a. Medicaid counseling
- Long-distance care giving
- Legal documents
a. Where are they
b. What needs to be updated
c. What needs to be done
- Physical and mental issues of aging
- Identifying actions that need to be taken
a. How to approach the elder
b. Consideration of the elder’s feelings as well
c. Re-adjusting the plan if necessary
- Medicare issues
