It often starts with small things you can almost dismiss: a forgotten name, a misplaced item, a momentary lapse in judgment. But as time goes on, the signs become more challenging to ignore. Your once sharp-minded parent is showing unmistakable signs of cognitive decline.
As a loving child, you want to do everything in your power to protect your aging parent’s care. But where do you start? How can you ensure their legal and financial affairs are in order, even as their mental faculties diminish?
At Alatsas Law Firm, we understand the challenges Brooklyn families face when a loved one's cognitive abilities decline. Experienced Brooklyn elder law lawyer Ted Alatsas is here to guide you through this challenging journey, providing the legal support and practical advice you need to secure your parent's future.
Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Cognitive Decline
One of the most crucial steps in supporting an aging parent is recognizing the early signs of cognitive decline. While it's normal to experience some memory loss with age, significant changes in cognitive function could signal a more serious issue, such as Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. It’s essential to watch for signs of:
- Memory loss. Does your parent frequently forget recent events, important dates, or names of close family members? Do they ask the same questions repeatedly or struggle to recall information they've just been told?
- Struggling with familiar tasks. Have you noticed your parent having trouble with tasks they've done for years, like cooking a favorite recipe or balancing their checkbook? They may take longer to complete these tasks or make more errors than usual.
- Poor judgment. Is your parent making decisions that seem out of character or potentially dangerous, such as giving large sums of money to strangers or neglecting personal hygiene?
- Changes in mood or behavior. Have you observed significant changes in your parent's mood or behavior, such as increased irritability, anxiety, or depression? They may also start withdrawing from social activities or hobbies they once enjoyed.
If you've noticed any of these warning signs, having your parent evaluated by a medical professional is essential. An early diagnosis can help you access appropriate treatments and begin cognitive decline planning.
Taking Legal Steps for Your Aging Parent's Care and Protection
Once you suspect cognitive decline, it's crucial to act quickly to safeguard your parent's legal and financial interests. Without proper planning, you may face significant hurdles in managing their affairs as their condition progresses. A Brooklyn elder law lawyer can help your family by creating a:
- Durable power of attorney. This legal document allows your parent to appoint a trusted individual (often an adult child) to make financial and legal decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
- Health care proxy. Like a power of attorney, a health care proxy designates someone to make medical decisions for your parent if they cannot do so themselves. This document should include your parent's wishes regarding end-of-life care, such as whether they want to be kept on life support.
- Will and trust. Ensuring your parent has an updated will and trust is critical for protecting their assets and distributing their estate according to their wishes. Without these documents, their assets may be subject to the lengthy and often costly probate process.
- Long-term care planning. As cognitive decline progresses, your parent may require more extensive care, such as in-home assistance or a memory care facility. An elder law attorney can help you explore options for funding long-term care, such as Medicaid planning or long-term care insurance.
It's essential to create these legal documents while your parent still has the mental capacity to do so.
Practical Tips for Supporting Your Aging Parent’s Care
In addition to handling the legal aspects of your parent's care, there are many practical ways you can support your mother or father as they navigate cognitive decline:
- Create a safe living environment. Modify your parents' home to reduce the risk of accidents and wandering. This may include installing grab bars, removing tripping hazards, and adding locks to doors and windows.
- Establish a daily routine. A consistent routine can provide structure and reduce anxiety for those with cognitive impairment. Help your parent create a daily schedule that includes regular meal times, activities, and rest periods.
- Encourage social interaction. Social isolation can worsen cognitive decline, so it's essential to help your parent maintain social connections. Encourage them to participate in activities they enjoy, such as hobby groups or senior center programs.
Additionally, we encourage you to prioritize self-care as you worry about an aging parent’s care. Caring for an aging parent with cognitive decline can be emotionally and physically draining. Protect your well-being by seeking support from family, friends, or a professional caregiver support group.
Remember, you don't have to do this alone. With the proper legal guidance and support services, you can help your parent maintain the highest possible quality of life as they face the challenges of cognitive decline.