### Planning Ahead: Updating Identification and Contact Details for Relatives with Dementia
When someone is diagnosed with dementia, it’s crucial to plan ahead to ensure their loved ones can make important decisions on their behalf. One key part of this planning is updating identification and contact details. Here’s how you can do it:
#### Why Update Identification and Contact Details?
As dementia progresses, the person may lose the ability to manage their own affairs. This includes updating identification documents like driver’s licenses, passports, and health insurance cards. Additionally, their contact details, such as phone numbers and email addresses, might change. Keeping these details up-to-date helps ensure that their loved ones can reach them and make necessary decisions.
#### Steps to Update Identification and Contact Details
1. **Gather Important Documents:**
– Collect all identification documents, including driver’s licenses, passports, and health insurance cards.
– Make sure these documents are in a safe and accessible place.
2. **Review and Update Documents:**
– Check the documents for any outdated information.
– Update the information as needed. For example, if the person’s address has changed, update their driver’s license and health insurance card.
3. **Notify Relevant Parties:**
– Inform the relevant authorities about the updates. For instance, notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you need to update a driver’s license.
– Also, inform healthcare providers and insurance companies about any changes in contact details.
4. **Create a Care Plan:**
– Develop a care plan that outlines the person’s wishes and preferences. This plan should include information about their medical history, living arrangements, and financial details.
– Share this plan with trusted family members or friends who will be making decisions on their behalf.
5. **Appoint a Substitute Decision-Maker:**
– Choose a trusted person to act as a substitute decision-maker. This person will make decisions based on the care plan and the person’s wishes.
– Ensure this person has the necessary legal documents, such as a power of attorney, to make decisions.
6. **Regularly Review and Update Plans:**
– Review the care plan and identification documents regularly to ensure they remain up-to-date.
– Update the plan if there are any changes in the person’s health or living situation.
#### Resources for Support
– **National Dementia Helpline:** The National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500) provides expert information, advice, and support 24/7. They can help you navigate the process of updating identification and contact details.
– **Dementia Care Programs:** Programs like the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model offer comprehensive support for people with dementia and their caregivers. These programs can help you manage the care plan and ensure the person remains in their home and community[2].
### Communicating with Loved Ones
When communicating with someone who has dementia, it’s essential to use simple language and be patient. Here are some tips:
– **Use Short Sentences:** Dementia patients often can’t absorb much information at a time, so keep your language simple[5].
– **Be an Active Listener:** Look directly at them while speaking, nod affirmatively, and use other body language to show you’re engaged[5].
– **Avoid Confrontation:** If the person denies taking medication but you see the pills in their pillbox, avoid confrontation. Instead, wait a few minutes and say, “It looks like your pills are still in your pillbox—why don’t we take them now?”[5].
By following these steps and using effective communication strategies, you can ensure that your loved one with dementia receives the best possible care and that their identification and contact details are always up-to-date.
