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    For Caregivers: Future Planning for People with Dementia

    The time will come when your loved one can no longer make sound choices. So it’s best to plan now for the future. Talk with your loved one about legal and financial matters. You could also discuss the types of care they want and don't want. Settling these issues now can help reassure both of you.

    Man and woman talking on couch.

    Discuss legal and financial issues

    Legal and financial planning is always a good idea. But it’s even more vital when a loved one has dementia. How will finances be handled? Who will pay bills? Talking about these matters can be hard. So you may wish to seek advice from professionals. These include financial planners, insurance agents, estate-planning attorneys, and social workers.

    Durable power of attorney

    This document transfers financial and legal power from your loved one to another person. It could be you. Or it could be some other person who can make decisions in your loved one’s best interest.

    Advance directives and living wills

    These documents spell out the kinds of medical treatment your loved one wants—or doesn’t want—in the future. Keep them with your loved one’s medical records.

    Long-term care expenses

    Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers all limit the types of care they will cover. Talk with a social worker about how to handle the costs of long-term care.

    Joint accounts

    Talk with your loved one about becoming a cosigner on their financial accounts. This helps make sure bills are paid. And it allows you to keep track of spending.

    Prepare for role changes

    As your loved one’s needs change, so will your role as caregiver. At first, you may only need to help with minor tasks. Later, your loved one may need someone with them all the time. Planning for these changes now can make it easier to cope. Start by talking with family and friends. What tasks can they help with? Who will care for your loved one if you become ill? You can also learn about options for professional care. That way, it’s easier to move to the next step when you need to.

    Consider caregiving options

    Talk with a social worker, health care providers, or a local support agency about options for care. These may include one or more of the following:

    • Adult daycare provides supervised care during the day.

    • Home health aides can be hired part-time. Or they can be hired as live-in caregivers.

    • Assisted living facilities can provide a home and support. They are for people who need moderate amounts of help.

    • Nursing homes provide constant care.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Esther Adler
    Online Medical Reviewer: Joseph Campellone MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Date Last Reviewed: 2/1/2025
    © 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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