Planning for Caregiver Emergencies - All About Seniors

By Wendy Hudson Murphy, Associate Director of Respite Care CharlestonBill began the day helping his mother, Barb, get dressed and take her medications.Barb had dementia and rarely left home, relying on Bill for almost everything.Later that day, Bill saw his doctor about worsening indigestion and heartburn.

He assumed a quick visit and some med changes would have him back home and feeling better in hours.Unfortunately, what Bill thought would be a routine visit changed when his physician sent him straight to the hospital.It wasnt heartburn Bill was having a cardiac event.Concern soon turned to panic as he tried to think of someone to care for ALL his mothers needs, not knowing how long he would be hospitalized.

Bill never imagined their next medical emergency would be his own.The crisis Bill experienced isnt uncommon among those caring for loved ones with Alzheimers or other dementias.Primary caregivers are used to meeting their loved ones every need, and too often, theyre so focused on being caregivers that they neglect their own well-being.Advanced planning can help minimize disruptions to those with dementia in an emergency and reduce the burden on caregivers so they can focus on their own recovery.These proactive steps can reduce stress and make life easier when the unexpected happens.Designate a Point PersonIdentify someone you trust whos able and willing to take the lead when you cant.

It doesnt have to be the person who will provide ongoing direct care for your loved one; rather someone who can carry out your wishes and make decisions on your behalf.Make sure your point person agrees to take on the responsibility, and give them easy access to the information and resources theyll need to act quickly.(Ideally, your point person would be the power of attorney and healthcare POA for you and the alternate for your loved one.)Create an Emergency File Create a file with key information and copies of vital documents for both you and your loved one with dementia, and place it in a secure, yet easy-to-find location in your home like a bright red envelope on the side of your fridge.

Make sure your point person knows where to find the file, which should include:Government-issued photo IDs and insurance and social security cardsNotes about medical condition(s), allergies and other recent medical historyA list of medications with times and instructions for dispensing themNames and contact info for all professionals involved in your familys care (doctors, pharmacists, etc.)Names, contact info and relationships with children, siblings, close friends or others your point person may need to call onPowers of Attorney and healthcare POAs, living wills / advance directives and other relevant documentsKnow the Options for CareSeveral options exist to provide day-to-day care for short-, medium- and long-term situations.Consider the following when making your emergency file:If family or friends will likely stay home with your loved one, write down instructions about their routine, preferences, comfort items, triggers, etc.Professional caregivers can fill in by providing supervision, helping with your loved ones daily activities, and assisting with meals, chores and other tasks.Build a relationship with a paid caregiver / agency so you have options for someone to step in quickly.Familiarize yourself with senior living communities and their admissions processes.

Many offer short-term, overnight respite care.Have a few options in mind because respite beds are limited.Admission can take 2-3 days due to required assessments, so make sure to plan for the interim.A friend from Bills caregiver support group made arrangements for Barbs care while he was hospitalized, but the lack of plans took its toll.

The unnecessary stress kept Bill unstable, and his mothers fear and uncertainty led to dramatic mood swings.While critically ill, Bill was forced to entrust his mothers care to a facility hed never seen.An emergency plan can be a gift to the caregiver, their loved one with dementia, and others on their support team, creating peace and stability something every caregiver needs.For help making your emergency plan or to learn about other supports available to those living with Alzheimers or other dementia, contact Respite Care Charleston at [email protected] or 843-647-7405.