Assess the situation

An objective analysis of your health, medical coverage, emotional state and other commitments will help you figure out how much you can and cannot do yourself, and what type of outside support will be needed to ensure your loved one’s health and safety.

Write down your assessment of:

• Your loved one’s ability to function independently, both cognitively and emotionally.
• The safety and adaptability of your home or physical environment.
• Your own health and emotional resources.
• Your other responsibilities at work, at home, to other family members and in the community.
• The availability of family and friends to give you support and to share the care.
• Your financial resources, including insurance coverage and, if the person had been working, private disability insurance and the federal program, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
• Late stage preparation for you and your family member.
• End-of-life preparation for you and your loved one.

A written document helps to avoid neglecting important issues. Review and update these observations periodically to help you determine if you need to make changes along the way.