| Think About Your Family
Family involvement is often the backbone
of planning and care. It is important
to think about what your family can
and should be doing in the role of
care provider. While family can provide
many types of support, it may not be
feasible or desirable for parents or
spouses to provide certain types of
support. It is also important to identify
who else in the community should be
part of the planning process or your
support team member. Many older people
are able to remain at home because
their family helps with meals, transportation,
taking medication, personal care, and
more. This type of support is called “family
caregiving.” Family caregivers
may also be neighbors or friends. Many
are employed and are likely responsible
for the needs of other family members.
Family caregivers are often the “go-between” with
health care providers and others for
their loved one.
The amount and type of family involvement
will change over time. Sometimes that
change occurs in an instant due to a
health crisis. Good communication is
vital to keep this family support system
working smoothly.
Think about the following questions
for yourself or your family member:
- Do I expect family members to assist
when I have long-term care needs?
- Does my family or support team
have the resources it needs to take
care of my needs?
- Have I talked with my family or
support team to determine the amount
and type of support they are willing
to provide?
- What other resources will they
require to take care of my needs?
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