Families may want to form a plan for loved ones with Alzheimer's

Those who care for older parents may want to take a few steps to plan for the eventual onset of Alzheimer's disease, particularly if a senior is already showing signs of the illness, according to The New York Times.


The first step for families to take is to have a thorough discussion about the matter. "Go to a health care professional who can be supportive and understand some of the dynamics going on, so that the conversation is structured around identifying something that is a need and that we don't want to get any worse," Becky Bigio, director of New York's Senior Source program, told the news provider.


This can lead to the other necessary steps that children or spouses may want to take in regards to caring for their loved one.

This includes signing the appropriate legal papers and setting up safety measures to make sure that bills are still paid. Day-to-day routines may also require a overhaul, as seniors with Alzheimer's may need to simplify their schedule.


Alzheimer's care also often requires professional help as well, and there are a variety of specialists who can medically and financially assist those with dementia.


The Alzheimer's Association estimates that there are currently 5.3 million Americans with Alzheimer's disease and this number is expected to grow as the baby boomer generation ages.


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