Creating a Family Caregiver Plan—Before It Becomes a Crisis
- Ron Roel
- Jan 16
- 2 min read
1) How to create a caregiving plan: the ‘Club Sandwich’ Generation
The Why? What family caregivers do and why
Plan, plan, plan, even though many families don’t.
Work as a team with family members, direct care providers and professionals.
Be resilient, prepared for change. The unexpected will happen, but it’s not as unpredictable as you think.
Break down planning in 3 manageable sectors: health care & long-term care; finance, legal affairs & estate/legacy issues. Where is all the vital information kept and who needs access?
2) The Family Conversation Across the Caregiving Spectrum
Have a family conversation at each stage of caregiving to review the situation.
3 out of 4 people want to age in place for as long as possible, so how do you make home modifications so people can age safely, securely and comfortably?
Chronic situations: Find out what your parents have in mind should they become dependent. If the answer is “I haven’t thought about it,” it’s time to talk.
It won’t be easy— Coordinating and communicating with other family members; dealing with resistance, coping with “the sibling syndrome.”
3) Dealing with chronic care: home care, assisted living communities & nursing homes
“Reverse engineering”: What do you want your loved ones’ life to look at 75? And what do you have to do today to make that happen?
How do you choose home care services? And when do you decide when your loved ones are better served in an adult community?
How to assess facilities: Government agencies; personal visits, senior advisors
4) The emotional roller-coaster: Caregivers caring for themselves and avoiding burnout
Caregivers feel lonely, isolated and invisible. How do we sustain love & dignity—for caregivers and recipients?
Seek help—you can’t do it alone. And be specific when you ask.
Who should advocate for you in times of stressful transition?
Respite, support groups, and resources—especially for dementia care.
5) Resources: AARP, Offices for the Aging; social service agencies; senior centers & advisors Contact: ron.roel@gmail.com; 516-319-4874 - Website: www.caregivingnav.com
