Helpful Tips for Family Member Caregivers of Alzheimer's Disease Victims

jacksonville elder law attorney thanks caregivers for alzheimer's disease victims with advance directives, power of attorney, last will and testament, designation of health care surrogate

November is National Family Caregivers Month. More than 15 million American family members care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some tips provided by the Alzheimer’s Association to help those providing care for family members who have Alzheimer’s disease:

Five Helpful Tips for Caregivers for Alzheimer’s Disease

• Join a Support Group. The stories and experiences of others may provide knowledge and comfort.

• Get Strategies to Manage Stress. It’s difficult to provide care for someone else if you neglect your own mental and emotional health.

• Learn New Caregiving Skills as the Disease Progresses. You can find helpful information at the Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Center.

• When People Offer Help, Accept It. Breaks and support will make you a better caregiver and will be good for your health and outlook.

• Know What Community Resources are Available. You’re not alone. Use the Alzheimer’s Association Community Resource Finder to find local services.

Get more information about the Alzheimer’s Association.

Family Caregivers and other caregivers who help those suffering with Alzheimer’s disease, please accept our load of thanks going out to all of you for caring and taking care of your loved ones who have great needs.

One of the most important actions to take before someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, is to plan ahead for legal documents. Having a power of attorney, designation of health care surrogate, living will, last will and testament and revocable living trust in place, will allow the family member caretaker to have the legal authority to handle the legal, financial and medical needs that the person suffering Alzheimer’s disease may experience – and not be able to take care of properly without help. Don’t wait until its too late to establish these legal documents.

For those who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease who can no longer be provided care at home by family members, we can help you qualify for Medicaid benefits to help cover the costs of skilled nursing home care. Please call us to schedule a consultation to see what financial assistance may be available for your family members’ needs.