getting family to agree on care needs

Bob is concerned about his grandmother's welfare. He was raised by her, and now that she is unable to care for herself, he wants to see her taken care of. However, he is frustrated by the lack of cooperation amount family members to agree on how that should happen. From his comments, his grandmother is bedridden and seems that she may be at risk for more serious problems due to lack of proper care. He needs assistance in breaking through the indecisiveness of the family and in learning about the resources available.

CAREGIVER PLAN FOR Bob:

AREA OF CONCERN	ACTION NEEDED	RESOURCES
Appropriate in-home care for grandmother	Regular nursing visits to oversee and monitor grandmother’s medical and health needs	Home Health Agency Rehabilitation and Visiting Nurse Association 225-9399
Companionship and friendly visitor for grandmother	Connect with a caring companion for regular weekly visits	VOA Caring Companions Call Meghan - 472-9630
Ongoing emotional support and counseling for caregiver	Connect with trained counselor or therapist to provide needed support and education	Loveland Counseling Connections provides information and referral to therapists
Assistance with long-term care for grandmother	Application for Medicaid Long Term Care - financial and functional assessment	Options for Long Term Care Intake Case Worker - 679-4770 Medicaid Benefits Helper - Sandy, 402-5080

Bob
One area that has not been mentioned becomes a legal one.  Has grandmother given any of you Medical power of Attorney to make medical decisions for her?  Also has she given a general Power of Attorney or what is known also as Financial POA to anyone?

Often in families everyone thinks that they are the decision maker.  Obviously everyone's opions are important and should not be ignored.  However in some family constellations, decisions come down to the client (ie grandmother).  If she is still able to make decisions (has capacity) you may want to contact Senior law Project, Nancy Wallace, 221-5602 to have Nancy write up the necessary documents. 

 In addition I suggest that if she is able have your grandmother complete Five Wishes.  A copy of this document can be obtained at by calling Larimer County Hospice, or Office on Aging.

Kirsten Hartman

Seniors in Transition, LLC

Geriatric Care Manager