It is important to have a plan in case of your own illness, disability, or death.

  1. Consult a lawyer regarding a living trust, durable power of attorney for health care and finances, and other estate planning tools.
  2. Consult with family and close friends to decide who will take responsibility for the person with Alzheimer’s Disease.  You also may want to seek information about your local public guardian’s office, mental health conservator’s office, adult protective services, or other case management services.  These organizations may have programs to assist the person with Alzheimer’s Disease in your absence.
  3. Maintain a notebook for the responsible person who will be assuming caregiving.  Such a notebook should contain the following information:
    • Emergency numbers
    • Current problem behaviors and possible solutions
    • Ways to calm the person with Alzheimer’s Disease
    • Assistance needed with toileting, feeding, or grooming
    • Favorite activities or food
  4. Preview board and care or long-term care facilities in your community and select a few as possibilities.  If the person with Alzheimer’s Disease is no longer able to live at home, the responsible person will be better able to carry out your wishes for long-term care.