The first month after a diagnosis is mostly about slowing down. Very little has to be decided immediately.
Short answer
What to do in the first month, and what can wait longer than you think.
What to do, in order
- Slow down. Very little has to be decided this month.
- Get the specific diagnosis. Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, Lewy body and frontotemporal dementia progress differently and respond differently to medication.
- Do the legal work now, while capacity is clear. Power of attorney, medical power of attorney, directives.
- Call the Area Agency on Aging serving your county. The Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio covers Hamilton, Butler, Warren and Clermont counties.
- Understand what memory care will require later. Ohio certifies memory care specifically for RCFs serving Assisted Living Waiver residents (OAC 173-39-02.16) -- ask what a specific community holds.
