Checklist for the evitable

Posted by nhbfan @nhbfan, Aug 18 12:06am

As the single surviving child, I am trying to prepare for the eventuality that mom my need more help than I can provide. I don't think they day is imminent, but I do want to be prepared. She's approaching her 90th birthday.

Things I have to check on:
1) facilities in our area for assisted living and possibly memory care
2) what's in a budget with mom's LTC insurance and SS and how much we may have to dip into personal funds.
3) tying up any loose ends that may exists.

Any other thoughts that I can do preemptively to make the transition easier would be greatly appreciated.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Caregivers: Dementia Support Group.

celia16 | @celia16 | Aug 18 6:50am

Have you consulted with an Elder Law attorney to ensure your mom has provided you proper documents like Durable Power if Attorney, Healthcare POA, Living Will, etc.

boppi | @boppi | Aug 18 8:28am

When I had a massive heart attack far from home and hospitalized for a week, I was not able to fly home so had to stay in a nursing home for another week of recovery. My daughter set this up long distance but I had no say in her selection. It was the worst experience of my life but there was not an opportunity for any of us to select the home. I suggest that if at all possible you let your mom visit your top choices and see if that is where she would like to be in her later years, her viewpoint may be different from yours.

Laurie, Volunteer Mentor | @roch | Aug 18 9:14am

@nhbfan

Planning ahead is excellent idea rather than waiting for an emergency.

This article has helpful information on what documents and other things that should have as you age.
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/getting-your-affairs-order-checklist-documents-prepare-future
I would also suggest checking what local resources are available. Eldercare is one organization that can provide information you may be looking for:
https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx
You may ask friends and relatives who have had experience with local facilities.

Check your state's Humans Services web site, example, MN has this site: https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/seniors/

Is your mom currently living independently?

nhbfan | @nhbfan | Aug 18 11:22am

In reply to @roch "@nhbfan Planning ahead is excellent idea rather than waiting for an emergency. This article has helpful..." + (show)

Thanks for the articles!

I've had POA for over 20 years now. She doesn't have any real property or an estate to settle, think the biggest challenges will be getting her into the best place for her.