H.O.P.E. Resources

 

 

The Caregiving Principle®     

Needs of the Person – Needs Filled by the Person = Needs to Be Filled by the Caregiver(s)

 

Caregiver Downloadable Forms 

Doctor Directory 

One of the most useful tools I developed was a spreadsheet with our mother’s medical providers. It included the name, address, phone, fax, hours, and recommended frequency of visits of her medical providers. My brothers also had a copy. The doctor list helped us to manage, schedule, and coordinate appointments proactively. I scheduled most appointments during a two-day period each quarter. My brothers coordinated their Delaware visits so they could take my mother to her appointments. This allowed them to meet her doctors and helped me tremendously by reducing my responsibilities.

10-Year Projection Spreadsheet

I developed the 10-year projection sheet when my mother moved to Delaware. It provides an idea of the financial situation of their loved one. The spreadsheet calculates their savings each year using their current savings, income, expenses, and debts. I assumed my mother’s facility expenses would increase 3 percent annually based on the three-year average Social Security cost-of-living adjustment. I estimated that her care level (and cost) would increase every two to three years due to deterioration from the illness. These assumptions can be changed in the spreadsheet if you are familiar with Microsoft Excel. This projection was updated with actuals and helped us predict when she would run out of money.


Doctor Visit Form

The doctor visit form listed issues since the last visit, medical visits to specialists, questions, and prescription refills needed. The form ensured my brothers and I covered everything that was needed during the visit. It was especially helpful when my brothers took her to an appointment.

Medication List Spreadsheet

A medication list keeps track of your loved one’s medications and dosage. This list can help you manage ordering medication to avoid running out. It is important to revise this list regularly, especially after a hospitalization. A medication list is needed for most medical visits.


Expense Tracking Spreadsheet

The expense tracking form allows caregivers to keep track of money they spend on behalf of their loved one. This information may be needed for taxes, qualifying for Medicaid, or for reimbursement from the loved one’s account.
 


Helpful Websites

AARP
Caregiving

    


The Alzheimer's Association
24/7 Helpline - 1-800-272-3900

    


2023 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures
Alzheimers Dement 2019; 13:325-373

    


MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return
MedicAlert

    


Dementia Map
Global Resource Directory

    


Genworth Financial, Inc.,
Compare Long-Term Care Costs across the United States

    


Medicaid
Keeping America Healthy

    


Medicare.gov
Official U.S. Government Site for Medicare

    


Medicare.gov
Nursing Home Comparison

    


U.S. News and World Report
Nursing Home Ratings

    


Apollo Health

"Dr. Bredesen’s research has found that Alzheimer’s results from an imbalance in the brain’s neuroplasticity signaling, the ability of neural networks in the brain to change through growth and reorganization. As we age and are exposed to multiple toxic assaults over time, the damaging forces overtake repair forces, resulting in the downsizing of the brain’s ability and subsequent cognitive decline. The goal is to change your biochemistry to provide optimal conditions for your brain to thrive. This is accomplished by identifying and addressing all the contributors (or potential contributors) to cognitive decline while at the same time optimizing your overall health to keep your brain healthy."

    


The Mallampati Index as a Screening Tool for Dementia Caused by Sleep Apnea - Carol B. Amos
Diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea using Mallampati Index may reduce the cases of dementia.

Dementia is a devastating disease that damages or destroys nerve cells in the brain. Persons with dementia experience a decline in memory, judgment, and cognitive skills, and eventually will be unable to care for themselves.1 Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder that causes persons to stop breathing during sleep, thereby reducing oxygen levels to the brain. OSA has been linked to dementia.2 Research shows that 80-90% of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) cases are undiagnosed.3 Patients with memory issues should be screened for OSA and OSA should be ruled out before a dementia diagnosis is made. Google "Mallampati Index Classification" to see pictorial.


Seven Steps to Prepare for the Alzheimer's Journey - Carol B. Amos
Discusses steps caregivers should take to prepare for caregiving.