What is Dementia? Part 2

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Once someone has been diagnosed with dementia , they and their carers usually need to prepare for significant changes in their lives . This section explains what kind of plans you might need to make , and tells you about the places you can go for help .

How far do we need to plan ahead?
Dementia often progresses slowly, and many people with a diagnosis live happy and fulfilling lives for a long time. But, whilst it can be a difficult subject to discuss, carers often say how important it is to make plans for the future with the person who has dementia. In the early stages, it is usually possible for the person to be fully involved, whereas later on this may not be possible.
One useful option is for the person with dementia to make an advance directive (also known as a ‘living will’), which is a statement that sets out what they would like to happen if they are unable to make decisions in the future. This could include their preferences about nursing home care, what treatments they do and don’t want, whether they want to be resuscitated in an emergency, and who they would like to make decisions on their behalf. Giving a copy of this plan to everyone involved (including the person’s doctor) may help reassure the person that their wishes will be respected. If the person with dementia needs help with writing an advance directive, a solicitor will be able to advise them.

Should I tell my employer about the diagnosis?
If you are working, and wish to continue, it is a good idea to inform your employer of the situation – they may be able to help you to carry on, perhaps with flexible hours. If you are unsure how your employer will react, it might be worth seeking advice from a carers’ organisation. Some of these are listed at the end of this booklet (see section 6 – Useful Contacts).