Determining when and how to tell friends and family about mom or dad’s dementia is difficult. But you may not know that others may have already noticed a problem. You don’t want people to treat your loved ones differently, but everyone needs to understand the disease and learn how to best interact with them. When trying to figure out how to talk to friends and family about a loved one’s early onset of dementia, try to find a time and place that allows for a long enough conversation to answer initial questions.
The family of movie star Bruce Willis has gone public with the difficulties of his medical condition while fighting off paparazzi trying to get photos of their dad/husband. The blended family of his current wife, ex-wife and all the children are trying to educate the public on how hard the disease is for Bruce and the family.
A diagnosis of dementia is equally stressful for any family. You will have to learn all about this terrible disease and watch as it takes away the person you love. You will notice a decline in memory, social skills and unusual emotional reactions. Your loved one may experience confusion, distress, mood changes and aggression as they become frustrated with everyday life. Hopefully, you have a strong circle of loved ones to help each other.
Here are 3 tips about how to talk to friends and family about a loved one’s early onset of dementia:
People want to understand what is happening and how to help. No person can go through this alone. You need your friends and family to all gather and help your loved one.
If a loved one has been diagnosed with the early onset of dementia, you may want to speak with an experienced estate planning about your loved one’s will or trust and how you keep them safe from elder abuse or scams.
At a minimum, an estate plan should include the following:
Now is the time to discuss your loved one’s estate plan. It’s a hard conversation, but you want to ensure they are taken care of and their wishes are followed when they can’t make decisions for themself.
Talk about your loved one’s estate plan now, before dementia takes away their ability to tell you their medical decisions and wishes after they are gone. As an attorney experienced with elder law and estate planning, we can help you understand your loved one’s options concerning a will, trust and healthcare directive. To talk to the compassionate attorneys at Estate and Probate Legal Group, contact us at (630) 864-5835
AREAS WE SERVE: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake and Will counties
