Elder Law Attorneys-Insights from Social Media Users on Caring for Aging Loved Ones

Our Elder Law Attorneys know that it can be challenging to find resources and answers you need when caring for aging loved ones. Recently on Twitter, a user asked for advice from others who had experience with caring for older loved ones. She asked if they had felt like their lives had been turned upside down and what had they done to make things easier. 

Feeling like your life has been thrust into chaos when you take on caring for an aging parent is very common. The user received numerous responses from others who had felt the same way. A lot of the advice she received was not only helpful, but it also echoed the advice that professionals also provide.

Take Care of Yourself

Have you ever heard the saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup?” This is a perfect metaphor for caring for an elderly loved one. If you’re not taking care of your own physical and emotional well-being, you won’t have the energy to care for anyone else. Don’t take on more than you can handle, and be realistic about what you can handle. Like one woman responded, “Do what you can when you can.” If possible, make arrangements to have someone else step in to help once in a while so you can take a break and recharge.

Form a Support Network

If you have siblings or other family members who are sharing in the caregiving responsibilities, make sure the lines of communication are open. Be honest with them about any fears or frustrations you’re having. Lean on them for support and be there for them when they need to do the same. If all of the caregiving responsibilities are falling on you, consider finding a therapist that can provide you with some support and help you cope. It may seem difficult to find time for a therapy session when your plate is already full, but it will be worth it. There are also resources available to caregivers through organizations like the Family Caregiver Alliance and the American Society on Aging.

Get Organized

Elder law attorneys recommend keeping a binder or folder that contains all of your loved one’s important information. Make a list of all conditions and medications including dosage and prescriber details. Have the contact information for all doctors and hospitals available. Make a copy of their insurance cards including pharmacy coverage. This will be helpful for those times where you may need to find a backup caregiver temporarily or in the event of an emergency.

Keep Finances Under Control

One of the most difficult aspects of caring for an aging parent is dealing with the financial stress and strain. Many adults in this position find themselves cutting back on their work hours, taking days off from their job, or leaving the workforce entirely. Not only does this affect their current income, it can also affect their financial situation once they hit retirement age themselves. Take some time to come up with a budget and consider how a loss of income will affect that budget. Be prepared to cut back on expenses if and when it becomes necessary. 

Ensure You Have the Necessary Legal Documents

You will want to ensure that your aging loved one has at a minimum a valid Advance Health Care Directive (“AHCD”) and Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney (“DPA”). The AHCD allows you to have the authority to make their medical decisions if or when that time comes. The DPA allows you to manage the loved ones funds and use those funds to pay for the necessary bills and care. Both of these documents allow you to advocate and care for your loved one without unnecessary red tape. Without these documents, you may have to go to Court for a Conservatorship to have these powers granted. 

Plan Ahead

The sooner you can prepare for caring for an elderly parent, the better off you’ll be. Talk with your parents about their wishes ahead of time so you can work with them on putting a plan in place. Discussing finances may be uncomfortable, but it will be necessary when it comes to budgeting for the type of care they’ll need and that you can afford. Remember that the level of care may change over time. And don’t forget to plan for things like transportation arrangements when they can no longer drive and moving expenses when they can no longer remain in their home. 

Make sure all of the necessary legal documents are completed, signed, and kept where you’ll have easy access. If you need help taking any of these steps, our California elder law attorneys are here to help. Simply contact us at 800-244-8814 to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in the state of California. 

If you have any further questions about estate planning and strategies to shield your wealth, or if you’d like to have your current asset protection plan reviewed to make sure it still meets your needs, please contact us at one of our offices located throughout the state of California 800-244-8814 to set up a consultation.