Why It’s Crucial to Have a Backup Plan for Loved Ones with Dementia
When a loved one is living with cognitive challenges, such an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, their world often becomes increasingly dependent on routine, familiarity, and—most importantly—on their caregiver. But what happens if that caregiver suddenly becomes unavailable due to illness, an emergency, or even death?
It’s not something we want to think about, but it’s something we must plan for.
The Fragile Web of Dependence
Dementia often progresses in ways that make a person heavily reliant on one primary caregiver for their daily needs. This caregiver might be a spouse, adult child, sibling, or close friend. They help with everything from meals and medication to emotional reassurance and behavioral management.
If that linchpin is suddenly removed, even temporarily, the person with dementia may be left frightened, confused, and unable to advocate for themselves. That’s why having a contingency plan isn’t just a smart move—it’s a compassionate and responsible one.
The Risks of No Plan
When a caregiver is no longer able to provide care, the absence of a plan can lead to:
- Medical neglect: Missed medications, improper nutrition, unmanaged symptoms.
- Emotional distress: Confusion and fear caused by abrupt changes in routine or environment.
- Unsafe situations: Wandering, falls, or other risks if supervision is lost.
- Legal and logistical issues: No one knowing where important documents are, who has power of attorney, or how to make medical decisions.
What a Good Plan Should Include
You don’t have to prepare for every possible scenario—but you do need a flexible, actionable backup plan. Here’s what that might look like:
- Identify Secondary Caregivers: Choose trusted family members, friends, or professionals such as Givens Home First Home Care who are willing and able to step in, even temporarily.
- Document Everything: Medical history, medication lists, daily routines, likes and dislikes, behavioral triggers, contact info for doctors—all should be in one easily accessible place.
- Legal Prep: Ensure there’s a durable power of attorney, a living will, and HIPAA release forms, so someone can legally make decisions and access information. Check out our recent Learn First Seminar on Advance Directives here.
- Financial Planning: Make sure resources are available (or planned) to cover care, whether at home or in a facility if needed.
- Facility Research: Know what local memory care facilities or respite care centers could be available in case of emergency. You could even consider an adult day care program such as MountainCare.
- Communication Strategy: Inform your inner circle about the plan—don’t leave your backup caregivers guessing what to do or where things are. If you’re a resident of Givens, loop in your Social Worker!
Peace of Mind for Everyone
Having a plan in place doesn’t mean you’re expecting the worst—it means you’re preparing for the unexpected. It’s an act of love and respect for everyone involved.
Because the truth is, caregivers are human too. They get sick. They burn out. Life throws curveballs. Planning for the “what if” ensures that your loved one won’t be left vulnerable if something happens to you.
Final Thoughts
Planning for care isn’t just about what’s happening today—it’s about safeguarding tomorrow. Whether you’re a caregiver or part of a family support system, now is the time to start the conversation and put a plan in place.
It’s not easy, but it’s necessary. And it can make all the difference.
