A dementia diagnosis raises hard questions. The most useful thing to know is that the diagnosis does not take away a person’s right to decide. Capacity should be looked at decision by decision.
Act early
The best time to plan is soon after diagnosis, while the person can still express their wishes. With a lawyer’s help, they may be able to make an enduring power of attorney and a personal directive. This can mean a court application is never needed.
Watch for these changes
- Trouble with bills, banking or passwords
- Falling for scams, or giving away money
- Unsafe situations at home
- Not understanding why medical care is needed
Sudden confusion is different
If confusion appears over hours or days, seek medical care. Delirium from an infection or medication is common in older adults, and it often improves with treatment.
When an assessment helps
- No enduring power of attorney or personal directive exists, and decisions must be made
- A document needs to take effect
- Family members disagree
- A care team or bank has raised a concern
Keeping dignity at the centre
Include your family member. Speak to them directly. Ask what they want, even if they cannot make the final decision. A person with dementia can often say what matters to them long after they can manage the details.
Learn how Mukesh works with seniors and their families, in their own language and at home.
Sources: Government of Alberta, capacity assessment and the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee. Rules can change, so check the current version or ask a lawyer.