From the moment you are born, you begin ageing. It is inevitable, and it happens right before your eyes; however, most people do not think about it until later in life. Unfortunately, some only take notice when something emergent occurs. Instead of waiting, take action today to create a plan for the coming road ahead. Whether it is for you or a loved one, it is always best to prepare.
Find Care Services
If you can, begin researching care options before you need them or in advance of your loved ones requiring them. It is always easiest to prepare. The process of finding a care service can be extraordinarily stressful. Luckily you do not have to wade into those waters alone. When you are ready, contact a qualified Care Home Broker to guide you through the process.
When you are working with experts in the Care Home Broker field, you will feel a sense of relief knowing your needs are met in the most helpful way possible. A Care Broker will conduct an assessment to get started. They will ask whether you or your family member wish to age in place or move to a care home. Additional questions and conversations will touch upon general health, any concerns noted by you or others, quality of life expectations, and any wishes to remain in a geographic area. Furthermore, they will work on your behalf to determine care costs and help you find the best options for your budget both now and in the future.
Be Aware of Signs of Concern
Ageing does not come easily for everyone. Alzheimer’s Disease and related Dementia symptoms sometimes sneak up on you. You may notice in your daily routine that you become lost when you leave the house. You might become confused during routine tasks. Alternatively, you may observe these changes in a beloved family member. Perhaps they are becoming more confused or even irrationally irritable. Any or all of these behaviours may be a sign of concern.
When you first begin to notice any signs or symptoms that cause you to worry, make an appointment as soon as possible with your general practitioner. They will conduct an initial assessment and may refer on for more specialized testing or consultations as needed. From there, a diagnosis of cognitive memory loss may occur. If this is the case, speak thoroughly with the GP and have a trusted advocate with you to help navigate this major life event.
Here is a video offering cognitive exercises for those with mild to moderate dementia.
Plan for the Activities of Daily Living
It is the little things in daily life that need coordination, especially at the beginning of a medical diagnosis. Seek out assistance in the form of a Care Broker or family member to begin planning.
Routine activities such as transportation to and from activities, houses of worship, groceries, and any other pursuit that has you leaving your home will need to be planned for if you or your loved one are no longer able to navigate this alone. If one becomes more homebound, grocery delivery along with prescription delivery will need scheduling.
Additional activities such as bathing, cooking, cleaning, exercise and companionship will need to be addressed and scheduled appropriately. Once all of the basic needs are identified, and services are secured, life will become easier once again for everyone involved.
Take some time today to assess your current life situation or that of someone you care for. Next, contact a professional Care Broker who will work hard to ensure you continue as long as possible within your intended and expected quality of life scenario. While you are caring for yourself through these stressors or find yourself unexpectedly caring for someone else, take time to assess your mental health and reach out when you need it.
Featured image: Photo by Kampus Production from Pexels
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
