Dementia and other cognitive conditions are complex and a diagnosis can significantly affect families. By understanding the various stages of the disease and the challenges that may arise, caregivers can better equip themselves to provide support and maintain a positive quality of life for their loved ones.
The Kensington White Plains aims to provide that understanding with Care. Cure. Prevent., a virtual panel on brain health, including the care, cure, and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
Moderated by Lauren Miller Rogen, co-founder of Hilarity for Charity (HFC), the panel will bring together top experts from prestigious institutions such as UCLA, Cedars-Sinai, Ray Dolby Brain Health Center, and Stanford.
Our esteemed panel of experts includes:
- Dr. Travis Urban of the Dolby Memory Center
- Dr. Irina Skylar-Scott of Stanford
- Dr. Sarah Kremen of Cedars Sinai Medical Center
- Dr. Leila Parand of the University of California, Los Angeles
Expect to learn about the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s treatment, effective lifestyle habits for prevention, and strategies for managing family dynamics post-diagnosis.
Join us virtually to explore these critical topics, which will contribute to our understanding and ability to effectively address this challenging condition.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
What to do after getting diagnosed with dementia
Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a profound and disorienting experience, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one.
The initial shock and uncertainty may leave you feeling like you’re racing against time, unsure of the next steps to take. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, but remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
To help you navigate this challenging time, we’ve developed a comprehensive guide that outlines the essential actions and considerations following a dementia diagnosis.
Post-diagnosis steps include:
- Immediate medical evaluations to understand the specifics of the condition
- Legal preparations to safeguard the future
- Financial planning
- Creating a long-term health plan system
- Establishing a support system
Our checklist and resources are designed to provide clarity and support, ensuring you have the knowledge and tools needed to manage this diagnosis effectively.
Let’s take these steps together, starting with understanding what to do after a dementia diagnosis.
Planning for healthcare and wellness after dementia diagnosis
After a dementia diagnosis, you’ll need to take proactive steps to ensure ongoing care and set up systems that respect your loved one’s medical preferences
Checklist:
- Book initial and follow-up medical assessments with a neurologist and geriatric specialist.
- Set up advance healthcare directives while your loved one is still able to make decisions, including healthcare preferences and end-of-life care and interventions to avoid.
- Select a healthcare proxy such as a power of attorney to make medical decisions if they become incapacitated.
- Detail which treatments, medications, and everyday care routines your loved one is comfortable with to guide future healthcare providers.
- Connect with mental health professionals who specialize in dementia to support your loved one’s emotional health and help them adjust to new realities.
Navigating financial and legal planning after dementia diagnosis
Addressing the financial and legal aspects prompt can help manage a dementia diagnosis more smoothly, and eliminate any future need for conservatorship.
This step will also protect your loved one’s assets and health decisions according to their wishes.
Checklist:
- Establish durable powers of attorney for finances and healthcare to oversee financial and medical affairs.
- Update or draft a new will to ensure that your loved one’s assets are distributed according to their wishes. This helps avoid legal complications later.
- Consider setting up trusts for managing assets. Trusts can provide financial protection, potentially reduce estate taxes, and ensure funds are used for your loved one’s care.
- Review all financial resources, such as savings, retirement accounts, and investments, to ensure they are secure and will support long-term care needs.
- Get advice from professionals experienced in elder law and financial planning, specifically those familiar with New York’s laws.
Understanding long-term and end-of-life care options for a dementia diagnosis
Planning for long-term and end-of-life care is a necessary part of managing a dementia diagnosis.
Understanding the available care options can ensure that your loved one receives compassionate and appropriate care that aligns with their wishes as the disease progresses.
Checklist:
- Assess the level of care your loved one requires and explore options such as home care, assisted living, or specialized dementia care to ensure their needs and comfort are met.
- Discuss and document end-of-life wishes early in the diagnosis including decisions about Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders and other directives that prioritize comfort and quality of life.
- Explore hospice care options that provide pain management, symptom control, and emotional support tailored to the individual’s needs in managing late-stage dementia.
- Update living wills or health care proxies to ensure all legal documents accurately reflect your loved one’s end-of-life care preferences with detailed instructions for various scenarios.
Coping with changes and caregiver support
Caring for someone with dementia is challenging and can significantly impact your emotional and physical well-being.
Establishing a support network and understanding how to manage caregiver stress is essential for maintaining one’s health and the quality of care one provides.
Checklist:
- Incorporate stress-reduction activities such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies into your routine and take proactive steps to recognize and manage signs of caregiver burnout.
- Engage with local or online support groups to connect with others in similar situations for emotional relief and practical caregiving tips.
- Look into respite care services that allow you to take breaks from caregiving duties to maintain your resilience and effectiveness as a caregiver.
- Educate yourself about the progression of dementia to manage care more effectively and make informed decisions as conditions change.
Get specialized dementia support at The Kensington White Plains
The Kensington White Plains is an assisted living and memory care community specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
We offer two levels of memory care support: Connections for early disease stages and Haven for more advanced stages.
Our community provides physical rehabilitation, all-day dining, and educational events to support caregivers and their loved ones.
Whether you’re seeking comprehensive care or guidance in managing dementia, contact us today to learn more about Our Promise to love and care for your family as we do our own.
Schedule a tour of The Kensington White Plains and learn how we can support you and your family.