Many families call after months of worry. A parent’s bills are going unpaid. A new “friend” is asking for money. The doctor has mentioned dementia. Nobody wants to take away a parent’s independence, but nobody wants to wait for a crisis either.

A diagnosis is not the same as incapacity

Having dementia does not automatically mean a person cannot make decisions. Many people with early dementia can still decide many things. An assessment looks at what this person can understand now, and in which areas of life.

Signs it may be time to call

Unpaid bills, unusual withdrawals or repeated scams
Pressure from someone close to them about money or property
Getting lost, missing medications or not eating well
A hospital or care team has asked about decision-making
Family conflict about what should happen next

How the visit is adapted

At home, or wherever your parent feels most settled
At their best time of day, because many older adults are sharper in the morning
In their language: English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu or Nepali
With hearing aids and glasses ready, and enough time to go slowly

If you suspect abuse

If an older adult is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. For other concerns about abuse, Alberta’s Family Violence Info Line is open 24 hours a day at 310-1818.

Read the guide to dementia and capacity for more on what families can do.