The New York City Department for the Aging, Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) by calling (212) 333-5511, or visit their website [https://aging.ny.gov/healthbenefits/]. Assessing the Financial Situation Financial planning should begin soon after the diagnosis of dementia has been made. The first step is to take stock of the person's income and financial resources. If the person with dementia is not able to provide financial information, a properly executed [...]

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At the beginning of the planning process, three questions need to be answered: * Who will manage the person with dementia's financial affairs? * Who will make medical decisions on his or herbehalf? * Who will be a "back up" in the event that the primary caregiver becomes unable to act? The two legal instruments commonly used in New York State to implement these decisions are Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy. In New York State, a Health Care Proxy must be a separate documen [...]

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The Need for Legal Planning If not already done, legal planning should begin soon after a diagnosis of dementia has been made. People with dementia may be able to manage their own affairs at the beginning. As the disease advances, they will increasingly need to rely on others to act in their best interest. A good way for caregivers to get an introduction to Legal and Financial Planning is to attend a free Legal and Financial Webinar. It is recommended to attend an Understanding Dementia meetin [...]

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The late stage of Alzheimer's disease may last anywhere from several weeks to several years. Intensive, around-the-clock assistance is usually required. Caring for the person with Alzheimer's disease is most successful when the focus is on preserving quality of life and dignity and treating the person with compassion and respect. Responding to the Individual's Increasing Needs In the last stage of Alzheimer's disease, a person usually: * Has difficulty eating and swallowing * Needs assistanc [...]

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Seventy percent of persons with Alzheimer's disease are cared for at home. Home care can be essential to provide personal care and give the family assistance and relief to continue to care for the patient. Deciding on and finding the care needed is not always easy. It is a personal decision based on the person's needs and family situation. CaringKind does not recommend nor endorse any home care agencies or workers, but provides information on resources available to assist families in making arra [...]

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