Do you have a large family or are part of a large family with an elderly loved one? Things can get very complicated with a loved one who is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Family members may have conflicting ideas of what the best care path for this loved one is. Family arguments can stem from these conflicts and lead to bad blood at one of the worst times this could happen in a family. Here are some ways to avoid these with some estate planning details.

Consider Hiring a Third Party

If your family consists of many adult children or even adult children from other marriages, then there can be a conflict of interests about how to best care for an elderly loved one who can no longer care for themselves. Long term care is expensive, and some family members can be concerned how top level care is going to affect their inheritance. This can lead to arguments.

Fortunately, third parties exist to assist with these decisions. Care managers are knowledgeable in what is needed for patients and what is in their best interests. Many care managers are registered nurses, social workers or clinical professionals who have intimate knowledge of the system and can make an unbiased decision that is best for the patient.

A care worker can step in and be the voice of reason in what might be a trying time for all members of the family who are involved. These individuals are usually well versed in all of the options that are available care wise, what they will ultimately cost and what would be best for the elderly loved one who may need them. They can help to mediate and explain from an outside point of view what might not be received well when presented from family members who are perceived by others to be “too close to the issue.”

Try to Provide a Unified Front

When dealing with doctors, lawyers or even a care manager, the family must provide a unified front. Trying to provide multiple opinions and expecting the decisions to be made by these service professionals is a sure way to find yourself in need of a new doctor or lawyer.

Have a Well Thought Out Estate Plan

Of course, if you have a well thought out estate plan, then many of these problems will already be solved. Sit down with your whole family and explain to them what your wishes are. Then, hire the services of Stano Law Firm, and let us help you document what your plan is. There will be no room for error, and your wishes are well documented and ready to be carried out.
For legal assistance in estate planning or with family disputes, contact the experts at Stano Law Firm.