While we don’t know what the future holds, discussing goals and planning for the future can create some security for everyone.
Click on one of the following subtopics you would like to explore further. Scroll down to find additional conversation prompts.
Click on the subtopics below to find additional conversation prompts.
Do you have a plan in place for an unexpected crisis or change?
Conversation Prompts:
Identifying people to call in the middle of the night
Identifying the next change in this situation
Identifying partners in complex decision-making
Role of emergency services
CONSIDER: Breaking down crises into smaller pieces; Identifying a next step rather than an answer; Identifying a task for tomorrow; Identifying the biggest worry
How is your current housing situation?
Conversation Prompts:
Accessibility and affordability
Upkeep and management
Access to needed services and supports
Signs that the current situation needs to change
Understanding what is needed to age in place here
Isolation and connection
CONSIDER: Nursing homes; CCRCs or assisted living facilities; Shared homes; Adult foster care; Intergenerational housemates (nursing students); Accessing local housing authority; Council on Aging and Area Agency on Aging; Home safety evaluation by physical or occupational therapist
What financial concerns do you have?
Conversation Prompts:
Power of attorney
Managing renewing services such as rent, household utilities, health insurance including Medicare and Medicaid
Financial planning for a change in residence (moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility)
CONSIDER: Elder care attorneys; Financial planners; Staff at local banks; Area Agencies on Aging often have a counselor for Medicare/Medicaid Support
Would you like any help with legal issues?
Conversation Prompts:
Power of attorney
Health care proxy
Wills
CONSIDER: Elder care attorneys; Templates on the internet (ex. 1) The Conversation Project; 2) https://www.va.gov/geriatrics/pages/advance_care_planning_topics.asp); Family meetings; Local resources from Area Agencies on Aging
Palliative & Hospice Care
What have you heard about palliative care and about hospice?
Conversation Prompts:
Difference between palliative care and hospice
When is the timing right for these services
Worries and fears
Past experiences with palliative care or hospice
CONSIDER: Making an appointment with a palliative care provider to learn about symptom management; Contacting a local hospice for information; PCP guidance when palliative care or hospice might be appropriate; Talking to family on their hopes and fears with palliative and hospice care
Medical Wishes
Have you talked about your wishes for future medical care with anyone?
Conversation Prompts:
Family conversations
Wishes as the disease progresses
Values/beliefs that might affect the care you want at the end of your life
People who can partner with you in making complex medical decisions
CONSIDER: Talking to your PCP about POLST forms; Using the Five Wishes Tool; Using the What Matters to Me workbook and other resources from the Conversation Project; Talking to your PCP about your goals, hopes and worries
Decision Making
How do you approach making big decisions related to dementia?
Conversation Prompts:
Housing/medical/safety
How your family makes medical decisions
Ethical issues underlying the decision
The voice of the person with dementia
Navigating conflicting opinions
CONSIDER: Pro-con lists; Emotion cards; Supported decision making; Identifying goals and impact of decision for all involved; Breaking decisions into smaller issues; Past methods of decision making