New routines

School is back in session across most Georgia counties. We were all hit with that stark reminder this week as traffic once again surged on Atlanta’s roads. It’s hard to believe that the days of splashing in the pool and summer vacation have come to an end for many families.

Along with establishing new family routines for the fall comes the time to make the necessary decisions about aging loved ones.

During the summer, did any of these situations crop up for your loved one?

1. New diagnosis
2. Increased signs of forgetfulness
3. A fall or hospitalization
4. Unpaid bills
5. Victim of a scam
6. Traffic accident or more dents on the car
7. Little food in the house, or most of it expired
8. Unwashed clothing
9. Decrease in personal hygiene
10. Canceling of social plans and increased isolation

These signs indicate that your relative or friend may need additional help. It is easy to bury your head in the sand and push these signs aside for a more ‘convenient’ time to address them. But it is actually the perfect time to assemble a team of trusted advisors.

Some suggestions for getting your ‘A’ team together are:

• Schedule a primary doctor’s visit and accompany your loved one
• Hire a PT or OT to visit their home and assess safety measures to prevent falls and other health risks.
• Contact home care agencies or visit adult day centers and assisted living communities to gather information.
• Consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager to help you create a plan and provide support as you manage your busy life.
• Meet with a Certified Elder Law Attorney (Hurley Elder Care Law) to ensure all legal documents are up to date, provide coverage, and to explore asset protection and care options.

Get educated now!

Life stays busy, leaving no ‘quiet’ time to prioritize these important steps. However, a health crisis is the worst time to educate yourself and to be forced into making decisions.

Football season, fall festivals, and the holidays are around the corner. Call Hurley Elder Care Law today at 404-843-0121 to join your loved one’s team.

Our expert legal team is available for meetings at our 4 Georgia office locations in Atlanta, Duluth, Newnan, and Woodstock. Virtual appointments are also available.