Estate Planning Isn’t Just For The Elderly

Happy, smiling couple in their sixties.

4 questions to ask as a loved one grows older and more dependent

On Behalf of | Dec 10, 2018 | Trusts

Do you have an elderly family member who you need to care for? Perhaps this individual is still able to carry out most daily needs, but your relative’s health situation is on the decline and you’re gradually becoming more involved.

If so, you may want to ask the following four questions about caring for an elderly family member:

 

1) What kind of care will your loved one require?

It’s important to sit down with your loved one to determine what kind of help he or she needs immediately, and what kind of help he or she will require in the immediate future. If dementia is a concern, you may want to make special plans to monitor your loved one’s condition, as he or she may not always be able to provide an objective view on health issues.

2) How can you assist your loved one to be independent?

Most people will want to be independent for as long as possible. You should therefore develop some exercise, health and social routines that will motivate and inspire your loved one while keeping him or her in the best physical shape. This will prolong your loved one’s independence.

3) Who is available to help your loved one?

Home health care aids are expensive and unaffordable for most families. The better option could be to use available family members who can assist with your loved one’s care. These family members will be more able to lovingly care for your loved one as well, and if you share the duties, it will be easier for everyone to satisfy this individual’s needs.

4) Where is the best and most convenient place for your loved one to live?

You could find that it is appropriate for your loved one to move to a new location where you and other family members can more easily tend to his or her needs. Hold a meeting with everyone who will be helping with your elderly family member’s care to determine the best place for him or her to live.

When it comes to taking care of the needs of your family member, legal issues may arise. You will therefore want to understand how New York elder law applies to your unique circumstances.