**Amending Living Wills After a Dementia Diagnosis: A Guide**
Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a challenging and emotional experience. It’s essential to plan ahead and make sure your wishes are clear, especially when it comes to your living will. A living will, also known as an advance directive, outlines the medical treatments you want or don’t want if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. Here’s how you can amend your living will after a dementia diagnosis.
### Why Review Your Living Will?
A dementia diagnosis can significantly impact your life, and it’s crucial to review your living will to ensure it reflects your current wishes. Here are some reasons why you should review your living will:
– **Changes in Health**: If your health condition changes, you might need to adjust your living will. For example, if you’re diagnosed with a new health condition, you may want to include specific instructions related to that condition.
– **Loss of Independence**: As dementia progresses, you might become less able to live independently. Your living will should reflect your current level of independence and the support structures you need.
– **Changes in Support Structures**: If your support structures change, such as the death of a partner or caregiver, you should update your living will to reflect these changes.
– **Substitute Decision-Makers**: If someone who was going to be your substitute decision-maker is no longer able to do so, you need to identify a new person or organization to make decisions on your behalf.
### Steps to Amend Your Living Will
1. **Consult with a Lawyer**: It’s recommended to consult with a lawyer who specializes in estate planning and advance directives. They can help you understand the legal implications and ensure that your wishes are clearly stated.
2. **Assess Your Current Situation**: Take time to assess your current situation. Consider what medical treatments you would or wouldn’t want if you were unable to make decisions for yourself. Think about the level of care you would prefer and any specific instructions related to your dementia diagnosis.
3. **Update Your Wishes**: Based on your assessment, update your living will to reflect your current wishes. This might include specifying the type of care you prefer, such as home care or institutional care, and any medical treatments you would or wouldn’t want.
4. **Notify Your Family and Healthcare Providers**: Once you’ve updated your living will, notify your family and healthcare providers about the changes. This ensures that everyone is aware of your wishes and can act accordingly if needed.
5. **Review Regularly**: Planning ahead doesn’t happen just once; it’s an ongoing process. Regularly review your living will to ensure it remains up-to-date and reflects your current wishes.
### Additional Tips
– **Consider Technology**: Technology can be a valuable tool in managing dementia. Consider using assistive technology, such as reminders and schedules, to help you stay organized and independent.
– **Make Your Home Dementia-Friendly**: Simple changes in your home environment can help you stay safe and independent. Improve lighting, use clear labels, and create routines to reduce confusion and anxiety.
– **Seek Support**: Living with dementia can be challenging, both for you and your loved ones. Seek support from family, friends, and professional caregivers to help you navigate this journey.
By amending your living will after a dementia diagnosis, you can ensure that your wishes are respected and that you receive the care you want. It’s a proactive step towards maintaining your independence and quality of life, even as your condition progresses.
