In this episode of "Dementia Caregiving for Families," Lizette discusses the four possible plans for individuals living with dementia, addressing the lack of conversation and clarity surrounding these plans within the healthcare system.

Many caregivers are given brochures on dementia without a thorough explanation of the four ultimate outcomes, leading to confusion and overwhelm.

The first outcome Lizette highlights is the need for 24-hour care, which is not clearly communicated from the beginning of the dementia process. The second outcome is that dementia is considered a terminal condition, even though not everyone will die from it.

Lizette then introduces a quadrant diagram to present the third and fourth outcomes. In the bottom left corner is at-home intermittent care, where the person with dementia receives occasional supervision while still living in their own home or a family member's home. In the bottom right corner is at-home 24-hour care, where the person requires round-the-clock supervision in a family member's home.

These four plans aim to provide clarity and guidance for caregivers navigating the challenges of dementia caregiving.

In this podcast episode:

0:01:03 The Four Plans for Dementia Caregiving

0:02:01 Lack of Information on Dementia Care Options

0:03:18 The Unspoken Reality: 24-hour Care for Dementia Patients

0:05:35 Terminal Processes: Cancer, Head Injuries, and Dementia

0:06:39 Understanding the Need for 24-hour Supervision with Dementia

0:08:00 Intermittent and 24-hour Care Options for Dementia Patients

0:15:12 Empowering Family Caregivers with Clear Plans

0:17:10 Supporting Independent Living with Intermittent Supervision

0:20:10 Serving the Success Seekers with Heart and Soul

Moving on, Lizette explains the four available plans in detail. The first two plans involve the person living at home with intermittent or 24-hour supervision provided by family members or paid caregivers.

The third plan is assisted living or memory care, offering intermittent supervision in a facility-based setting. Lastly, the fourth plan entails 24-hour care in a skilled nursing facility.

Lizette acknowledges that these options may not be feasible or affordable for everyone and encourages listeners to consider their own constraints and make the best decision based on their unique circumstances.

Lizette emphasizes that these decisions are not set in stone and can be changed. They advise listeners to take an active step forward and make the next decision they feel is necessary, reassuring them that they don't need to have all the answers right away.

Sharing their personal situation of supporting their parents to live in their own home with intermittent assistance, Lizette reminds listeners that decisions can be adjusted if needed.

In conclusion, Lizette emphasizes that all plans can be changed and none of them are irreversible. They encourage caregivers to start the journey, reminding them of the four main plans available: nursing home, assisted living facility, 24-hour care at home, or self-care.

Lizette hopes that this discussion has helped listeners feel less overwhelmed and gain clarity about the available plans. 

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