1. Do your research on the diagnosis.

2. Assess your loved one’s needs.

3. Determine what type of help is needed.

1. Advanced Care Planning

2. Put documents in one place and let someone know where they are located.

3. Discuss end-of-life preferences with their doctor.

4. Give permission in advance for the doctor or lawyer to talk with their caregiver.

1. Put together vital information.

2. Plan quarterly visits.

3. Plan activities during visits.

4. Create a list of local resources.

5. Find a local handyman for small projects.

1. Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116

2. Family Care Navigator: 1-800-445-8106

3. U.S. Aging: 1-202-872-0888

1. A durable power of attorney.

2. Living will.

3. Trusts

4. Conservatorship

5. Advance Healthcare/Healthcare Proxy

1. 1-800-MEDICARE or 1-800-633-4227

1. Assist with medication reminders

2. Refills

3. Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar

4. Immunization Records

1. Doctors

2. CPA

3. Bank

4. Life Insurance

5. Passwords to online accounts and social media accounts.

1. Home

2. Senior Community

3. Residential Care Facility

4. Skilled Nursing Facility

(Note: Ask if the facilities follow COVID protocols.)

1. Help with finances.

2. Coordinate Respite Care.

3. Coordinate Personal Papers

4. Birth Certificates of Children

5. Birth Certificates of Parents

6. Marriage/Divorce Papers of Parents

7. Property

8. Retirement

9. Investments

1. Take time for yourself.

2. Pay attention to changes in your mood, a loss of interest in usual activities, or an inability to accomplish usual tasks.

3. Eat a well-balanced diet. Drink plenty of water every day.

4. Exercise by taking short walks daily or at least three times a week.

5. Listen to guided relaxation recordings or relaxing music.

6. Schedule short rest periods between activities.

7. Make it a priority to get a good night’s sleep

8. Set limits for what you can do.