Season 2 Episode 33: Planning for Dementia and Mental Health

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago explore the vital importance of planning for dementia and mental health challenges. From understanding psychiatric advance directives to crafting dementia-specific care plans, they provide actionable steps and resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. Join them as they share stories, tools, and insights to navigate these critical aspects of end-of-life planning.

Disclaimer:
The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning.

Essential Question:
What steps can you take today to plan for a future where dementia or mental health challenges may affect your ability to make decisions?

Episode Highlights:

• Psychiatric Advance Directives: What they are, why they matter and how to create one tailored to your needs.

• Includes details about the Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment (DMHT) and resources for other states.

• Dementia Directives: How these documents help guide care during mild, moderate and severe stages of dementia.

• Includes tips for incorporating these preferences into existing advanced directives.

• Real-Life Scenarios: Honey and Santiago share stories and scenarios to illustrate the emotional and practical impact of planning.

• Tools and Resources: Interactive tools like Compassion and Choices’ Dementia Values and Priorities Tool and the Conversation Project’s caregiver guide.

• Choosing Advocates: Why selecting the right advocate is crucial and how to approach this sensitive conversation.

Advice for Listeners:

• Start Early: Planning before a diagnosis allows for clearer decisions and reduces stress on yourself and loved ones.
• Communicate Openly: Discuss your wishes with family and chosen advocates to ensure they understand your preferences.
• Review and Update Regularly: Keep your directives up-to-date as situations and preferences evolve.

Conclusion:
Planning for dementia and mental health challenges may feel overwhelming, but it’s a critical step in securing your future and providing peace of mind for loved ones. These conversations are tough but essential. Take the first step today to ensure your wishes are respected.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives: https://nrc-pad.org/states/
• Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/regulations/forms/advance-directives/declaration-mental-health-treatment-dmht
• Compassion and Choices Dementia Values and Priorities Tool: https://compassionandchoices.org/dementia-values-tool/
• Dementia Directive: https://dementia-directive.org/
• The Conversation Project, Guide for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's/Other Dementias: https://theconversationproject.org/

Connect with Thoughtful Planning:

• Website: Legacy Toolkit
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Thank You for Listening!
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