1. What is Alzheimer’s and Dementia?
Dementia is a term that describes symptoms causing a cognitive decline in which people lose the ability to think properly. The two most common types of dementia are Alzheimers disease, which account for 60-80% of cases, and Vascular Dementia, a type of memory loss that occurs after a stroke. Dementia is characterized by impaired memory, communication, language, attention span, reasoning, and judgement.
2. What are some of the signs of dementia?
Beginning stages may include getting lost on familiar routes, misplacing items, or difficulty performing thinking tasks that used to come easily, such as balancing a checkbook. A person may also lose interest in things they previously enjoyed or show personality changes. As the disease progresses, many have difficulty with grooming, dressing, preparing meals, etc.
3. How can we help our loved one live with dementia?
Plans must be made to help someone live with dementia. For example, filling pill boxes, providing reminders when it is time to take medication, or having someone administering medication. A caregiver may have to assist with bathing, dressing, toileting, etc. Someone will need to shop, prepare meals, and do light housekeeping. It may be necessary to see a neurologist to help determine the severity and progression of the dementia. A safe and calm environment must be established, whether at home or in an Assisted Living Facility.
4. What is Assisted Living?
Assisted Living is an option that promotes each individuals independence and personal dignity in a safe home-like environment. Residents receive help with the tasks of daily living, such as dressing, meal preparation, and medication administration. Assisted Living is an option for seniors who no longer want or are capable of living along. Also, for those who need help but are not in need of a nursing home.
5. Who is right for Assisted Living?
Seniors who are frail, yet not sick and who need help with daily activities such as house cleaning, meals, dressing, and medication monitoring. You may notice some of these situations that will help determine if your loved one needs an Assisted Living Facility.
6. How does Assisted Living promote a healthier and happier lifestyle for seniors?
ALFs have around the clock staff, some with a full-time nursing care. Services include personal wellness care, healthy diets, companionship, and recreational activities. There are emergency call buttons in each room and a staff that monitors medications and medical orders from doctors.
7. When is it time to consider Skilled Nursing (nursing home)?
A Skilled Nursing facility, or nursing home, may become necessary when both medical and personal needs become too great to handle at home of in an ALF. A recent hospitalization of chronic illness may also lead someone to need the care a SNF can provide.
8. Will Social Service Resource Center help determine the most appropriate living arrangement for my loved one?
Yes, the social workers at Social Service Resource Center are very familiar with the senior living facilities. We can also help handle the move, as well as Medicare and Medicaid issues. Our emphasis is set on monitoring health and wellness.
9. How do I know if one is eligible for Medicaid approval while living in a nursing home for long-term?
The Medicaid maximum monthly income cap is $2,130 per month. Maximum countable assets for a single applicant is $2,000.
10. Will Social Service Resource Center help in the Medicaid Planning?
Yes. We can help you plan for your loved one to become eligible for Medicaid. There are many aspects to Medicaid planning, especially if there is a “well” spouse involved. We can help you if your income and assets exceed the limits, as well.
11. Can Social Service Resource Center be a part of my estate planning?
Yes, we can serve in many roles to help you plan your estate. Under the advisement of your attorney, it is important to plan for the future. Estate planning will require a Last Will and Testament. You should also prepare a Living Will, so that if you are unable to make healthcare decisions, someone acting in your stead (a Health Care Surrogate) can help carry out your wishes. Along with a Health Care Surrogate, you should consider naming a Durable Power of Attorney. Each of these designees should include a second choice, in case your first choice is unable to perform the duty. We also serve as Trustee and Personal Representatives of an Estate.