How to Find Help When an Aging Loved One is Suddenly at Risk During the Holidays

As you and your family begin the holiday season filled with plans of celebrations, gatherings and presents, are you concerned about your aging loved one? Have you been aware for some time of the growing fragility, slow pace and lack of self care in regard to your aging loved one and is it especially noticeable during the fast paced holiday season? Is your family facing the unexpected challenge of your aging loved one needing long-term care? During these already busy times, addressing an aging loved one’s emergent health requirements can seem daunting. How do you find help when an aging loved one is suddenly at risk during the holidays?  

The primary concern in such circumstances is the safety and well-being of your aging loved one, which necessitates a thoughtful combination of practical choices and compassionate understanding. We recognize the difficulties you face in this intricate situation. Amid the festive ambiance, you are suddenly tasked with making significant decisions about healthcare, living arrangements, and legal issues, which can impact your entire family.

The first step needs to be ensuring the safety of your aging loved one. This might mean adjusting their living space to prevent accidents or organizing for a relative or professional caregiver to provide support. Keeping your aging loved one involved and emotionally supported during this period is crucial. Regular visits, engaging conversations, and including them in holiday festivities as much as their condition allows can offer emotional solace and lessen feelings of loneliness.

Next, it is important to find and review your aging loved one’s Florida estate plan, if it exists. This plan will clarify their wishes and designate decision-makers. Understanding this document is vital for informed care decisions.

Then, assess the care level your aging loved one needs, both presently and in the future. Consulting your loved one’s healthcare professionals can help you understand their medical conditions, mobility limitations, and any cognitive challenges. An experienced Florida elder law attorney is invaluable in exploring long-term care options and managing financial aspects. They can assist you in choosing the right care solution, be it in-home support, assisted living, or a nursing home, tailored to your aging loved one’s specific needs. If your aging loved one’s Florida estate planning attorney is not specialized in elder law, they might refer you to someone who is.

Your Florida elder law attorney will also guide you in financial planning for care expenses. This could involve using savings, examining insurance possibilities, understanding public assistance programs like Medicaid, and exploring any eligible benefits, including veterans’ benefits.

We understand that dealing with the sudden requirement for long-term care for an aging loved one during the holidays can indeed be overwhelming. However, with systematic steps to ensure their safety, understanding their needs, and seeking expert advice, you can confidently manage this challenging period. The goal is to provide compassionate care that honors the dignity and preferences of your aging loved one.

As you navigate this journey, remember you are not alone. Many have been in similar situations, and there are numerous resources and support networks available. The holiday season, focusing on family and togetherness, provides a poignant setting as you undertake this new responsibility in your aging loved one’s life, aiming to make their later years as comfortable and dignified as possible.

While this article might ignite more questions, it serves as a stepping stone towards understanding the nuanced world of power of attorney in Florida. When your family or financial health is on the line, trust attorney Paul Riffel to help you protect your interests and achieve your goals. Attorney Paul Riffel has been practicing law in Florida for over 41 years, focusing in the areas of Tampa estate planning and  family law. We encourage you to contact us and schedule a meeting with us.