She Strengthens

Navigating the Complex World of Caregiving: Lessons Learned

As a young mother, I never expected to take on the role of caregiver for my own mom, especially not after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. But life had other plans, and I found myself juggling the responsibilities of raising my children, working full-time, and caring for my mom’s financial needs.

The Importance of Proactive Planning

One of the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer’s is poor judgment when handling money, which made it crucial for me to get involved in my mom’s finances. Looking back, I realize that I made a critical mistake by waiting until it was too late to have the “money talk” with my mom. Don’t wait for an emergency to arise; have the conversation with your parents while they’re still healthy and lucid. This will help you avoid emotional and logistical challenges down the line.

Legal Rights and Responsibilities

To manage my mom’s finances, I needed the legal right to do so. This meant ensuring she named me power of attorney, giving me the authority to make financial decisions on her behalf. It’s essential to have these legal documents in place, as they can save you from a lengthy and costly court process. Without the proper legal rights, you’ll be powerless to help your parents with their finances.

Attention to Detail is Crucial

After becoming my mom’s power of attorney, I faced the daunting task of uncovering all her financial accounts, assets, and sources of income. It was like piecing together a puzzle without knowing the final picture. To avoid this, encourage your parents to share this information with you while they’re still capable. This will save you time, effort, and potential headaches.

A Gentle Approach to Caregiving

It’s essential to strike a balance between taking control and respecting your parent’s autonomy. I didn’t immediately take over my mom’s finances; instead, I stepped in gradually, offering assistance and support where needed. By doing so, I maintained her sense of independence while ensuring her financial security. Remember, patience, respect, and kindness are key when navigating the complex world of caregiving.

By learning from my experiences, you can better prepare yourself for the challenges of caregiving and ensure a smoother transition for both you and your parents.