Receiving a diagnosis for a chronic condition can be both challenging and overwhelming for all parties involved. It can be difficult to know what steps to take next, as many aspects of you and your loved one’s life may change. Being proactive and planning ahead is key to helping plan for your loved one’s future care and prepare for challenges that may arise as a result of his or her chronic condition. To help ease your mind about the planning process, let us share with you a few tips to consider when planning for a loved one with a chronic condition.
1. Research the condition.
One of the most important first steps you can take when planning for a loved one with a chronic condition is to research the condition. Spend some time learning specific information about your loved one’s condition, including how the condition manifests, how multiple conditions, if any, interact with one another, current treatment plans, and treatment plans that your loved one has previously tried. The more information you have, the easier it will be to prepare for your loved one’s long-term care.
2. Review your current estate plan.
Next, we encourage you to review your current estate plan and long-term care plans, if you have created any. It is important to evaluate the circumstances you have already planned for and determine whether you have adequate protections in place, or if you need to update your planning documents. Be sure, for example, that you check your loved one’s health care coverage, review your loved one’s insurance, and have a durable power of attorney in place.
3. Consult an experienced attorney.
It can be difficult to know whether you have all of the planning documents you need. One of the most effective ways to help ensure your loved one is safe and protected is to discuss your loved one’s specific needs with an experienced, local estate planning and elder law attorney. He or she can advise and guide you as to the steps you should be taking to plan for your loved one with a chronic condition.
These are just a few tips to help plan for loved ones with chronic conditions. We know this can be a challenging topic to think about. If this article raises more questions than it answers for you, do not wait to learn more on our website or contact us to schedule a meeting with attorney Alan Hougum.
