Pedestrians are advised to look both ways before crossing the street ... mindful caregivers should take similar precautions. As a caregiver, you are not watching out for speeding motorists; instead, you are exercising caution by analyzing what else might be approaching.
Simply put, when you know what is coming, you can better prepare. Obviously, one cannot totally anticipate everything that lies ahead; however, one can make less grandiose plans. If Alzheimer's disease runs in your own family, start visiting and touring secured units sooner rather than later. Even if your parent is well in many respects, consider signing him/her up on a care facility's waiting list. I was recently speaking to a woman whose mother, at 65 years old, was adamant about the very idea of long-term care. However, the waiting list was eight years long, so, you can see how important it would be to register right now.
It may also become necessary for an adult child in the family to take over paying Mom and/or Dad's ongoing bills. Visiting the bank and arranging someone in the family to become a co-signer on a parental account is far easier when Mom and/or Dad is physically and mentally well ... this way, travelling is not impossible and your parent will better understand what is happening when you arrive at the bank.
You can also begin researching various health conditions to become more educated as to what may hit Mom or Dad in the later years, what medications and/or treatment(s) may be available and the prognosis for such conditions. When you learn more about a specific medical condition, you will have a far better understanding of it and know what you can do to keep your parent as comfortable as possible.
Preparation is just one of the many issues faced by new caregivers. Remember to always look both ways before stepping forward to avoid being bowled over by something unexpected.
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