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Due to his unusual forgetfulness, I suspect my 79-year-old husband may have dementia. The doctor has scheduled a brain MRI and then maybe a cognitive test. If he is diagnosed with dementia what are my next steps? We have no kids but he does have a younger brother; do I inform him? (I've already warned him of the possibility.) I also already have his Healthcare and Durable Powers of Attorney (as he has mine).
I just am so worried about what to do if he is diagnosed with dementia. There's no way his brother can really help; he still works full-time and lives 2 hours away as do all his nieces and nephews. Any advice appreciated, thanks.

Other people will provide more comprehensive answers. The one thing that pops out at me is the healthcare and financial powers of attorney. You should name someone else (that is, not your husband) as your agent in yours.
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Reply to Rosered6
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Nobody volunteers to help out a caregiving spouse with the other who has dementia anyway, it's a true rarity. You can hire in home help to give you respite, and you can place your husband in Memory Care Assisted Living when you can't handle him anymore if you have the funds. See an elder care attorney for guidance.

Stick around here for very useful guidance and help. Many wives are in your shoes, you're not alone.
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Reply to lealonnie1
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I know this is scary and I'm sorry you're going through it.

Unfortunately, one of the first things you need to focus on is your joint financial situation, including the legal aspects. Make a list of every account. Gather the files and get all the passwords; sign into anything that needs two-factor authentication so he can get you approved. Have him introduce you to his financial people if there are any. Get the safe-deposit box key, if he has one.

Also, meet with an Elder Law attorney to advise you on what else to cover -- POAs (his AND yours, as Rosered pointed out), wills, beneficiary accounts, etc. Also ask about protecting your home, assets, and ability to qualify him for long-term care under Medicaid should that need arise in the future.

Are you close in age to him? Are you working or are you both retired?

Again, my sympathy to you.
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Reply to MG8522
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If he is diagnosed with dementia, please add another POA for yourself.
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Reply to JustAnon
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