GREAT TAG TEAM
My father is getting quite confused and has agreed to give me power of attorney for his finances and medical care. I have 3 brothers who are willing to share the care and burden. We are all close but how do we organize things efficiently.
Glad to hear you’re working together. Talk to the family doctor and see what he or she recommends. Maybe some testing is needed. Also, as far as day-to-day things, list what’s needed, figure out what makes sense and who can do it best and easiest, Think about risks as well. Also, the three of you should plan for now and have a contingency for when things change—often suddenly.
CAN’T DO IT – SORRY!
I have 2 small children and a job. No husband. I think its too much to take on care of my parents but my sisters think I’m being selfish. I live the closest.
Be clear that your “no” is not because you don’t care. Rather, it’s because you can’t take on anything big like caregiving given your current responsibilities. Suggest other reasonable options and a task or two you could help with once in a while. You may wish to involve a social worker or a case manager from the provincial health organization.
FINDING RESOURCES
Where will I find more information about dementia care? My older sister just got diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and I don’t know where to turn.
Well done for reaching out. You are not alone. Talk to her family doctor for referrals. Hundreds of us from coast-
to-coast are now caring for someone living with dementia. Your local Alzheimer society is a good place to start and there are also good resources at alzheimer.ca. Here’s a helpful article: https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia.
ARE THEY FOR ME?
What’s a support group? Does it have a charge for joining and do I have to go every week?
Run by health professionals, local support groups are a way for people with a common experience to learn from each other and help with ideas, resources and emotional support. Some are for those with a specific diagnosis or experience, others are open. Contact the host organization to decide which live or on-line groups to try based on your preferences and needs. There’s a good list of questions: www.heretohelp.bc.ca.
