We all plan – it is how we bring order to our lives and make sure the important things get done.  But when you are caring for a senior, even the most well crafted plans can’t solve all the problems.  Planning cannot stop a mental or physical decline.  Planning can’t stop a senior from having a bad day and upsetting the plans already in place.  Planning can’t ensure that what you think will happen …..will actually take place.  Planning can’t buffer your emotions when faced with a progressive disease such as Alzheimer’s.

So, why plan?  Why spend time and energy on something that won’t help?  Should we instead just take each day as it comes, with no thought to the future? 

My experience is that planning can help.  It can help a caregiver bring a little structure to a very challenging situation.  Planning can save time too.   And being proactive can ensure that potential solutions are explored ahead of time thereby reducing stress during a time of crisis.

Following are a few planning suggestions for caregivers:

• Create a list of all the important people in your parent’s life and include their phone numbers. For example:  all children and close relatives, neighbors, Doctors and health care providers, Assisted Living personnel, health insurance contact (and policy #’s), attorney, financial planner, minister, etc.  Carry this with you in your wallet.  Then when you need to call someone, you don’t lose time hunting for phone numbers. 
• Take the time you think it will do something and multiply by 2 or 3, depending on your parent’s physical and mental condition.  While it could take you a ½ hour to zip through the grocery store….it can take 3 times longer if accompanied by a senior who moves slowly or is confused about what to buy.
• Build good relationships with the people that care for your parent.  Take the time to meet the new Executive Director of the Assisted Living facility and introduce yourself to new staff members.  Be interested, engaged and respectful when dealing with your parent’s Doctor and their staff.
• Stay attuned to eldercare issues addressed in your local paper.  Is there a new Memory Care facility opening soon?  Have additional programs been added to the Senior Center?  Has the city added transportation options for seniors?