Talking about death and dying isn’t at the top of most people’s to do lists. The topic makes people feel uncomfortable and can create tension. Unfortunately, without an end-of-life plan, the stress that follows a loss might make the grieving process difficult. For seniors and loved ones, talking about this challenging topic is important. With personal care at home, the conversation might flow easier as loved ones receive added support in caring for seniors and understanding their needs.
Discussing an End-of-Life Plan
An end-of-life plan allows seniors to control their finances and healthcare decisions. In many instances, these plans involve working with a healthcare expert, especially if they are advanced healthcare directives. Conversations with professionals who provide personal care at home and with loved ones about what seniors want in case of a life-threatening illness or accident are essential. It’s also important to work with a lawyer familiar with elder laws.
If possible, have the discussion early, so everyone involved has the time to process and discuss necessary changes. This kind of preparation helps ease discomfort and enhances the quality of life. Once the plan is complete, seniors and loved ones can relax and spend the rest of their time making memories.
Working With a Lawyer
To create an advance directive, a living will, or a healthcare proxy, seniors do not need the help of a lawyer. However, they may need the assistance of a lawyer for specific situations and power of attorney issues. There may also be things they have questions about, and a legal representative can help them with the answers. For this reason, having a lawyer involved is a good idea.
Before any plan is created concerning a healthcare issue, seniors must fully understand their diagnosis and prognosis. Talking with their personal care at home team and loved ones helps seniors to understand their options and rights. Once they have all the information, they can create the best plan for their needs.
Other Factors to Consider
Additionally, seniors will need to choose an executor and create an inventory of their belongings and what they want to happen to them. This process can be supported by personal care at home companions and loved ones so that seniors have the time to go through their items. End-of-life checklists can be found online to make sure everything is completed. They will have boxes for will and a living will, what to do with belongings and pets, and more.
Having a reliable personal care at home team supporting seniors is essential as they transition through the many changes of aging. While having these discussions may be hard, completing them means there is one less thing seniors and loved ones need to consider when the time comes.
Working with personal care at home companions helps strengthen seniors’ support system as they enter their next life stage. Personal care at home companions offer valuable support during the process. They can also help seniors with light cleaning, cooking, transportation, and more.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Personal Care at Home in Verona, WI please contact the caring staff at Agape Senior Services Madison today. (608) 841-1004
