While You Can Still Decide

A doctor has said mild cognitive impairment, or early dementia. While You Can Still Decide is a large-print book for the person who heard it, written for the months when the decisions are still theirs to make.

Inside

• What mild cognitive impairment and early dementia mean, what can still be treated, and how to ask for a second look
• The questions to take to the doctor, and the Medicare visit built for this
• Treatment, including the newer drugs for early Alzheimer's disease and their risks, research studies, and Medicare's GUIDE program
• Grief for the future you planned, and what to do if depression sets in
• Who to tell, when, and words you can use
• The papers to sign while you can: advance directive, power of attorney, a will, and Social Security's advance payee choice
• Protecting your money: trusted contacts, bank alerts, and scams
• Work, disability benefits, and paying for care later
• Driving: getting an honest answer, a driving evaluation, Georgia's rules, and a plan for stopping
• Keeping a life that is yours, and a page on how you like things done
• A 30-day plan
• A part for the care partner: deciding together, money, safety, and getting a break
• Georgia as a worked example, and a Sources section listing every source

Stephen Deason has spent about forty years working inside health care. He runs a licensed home care and skilled nursing provider in Georgia.

This book is general information. It is not medical, legal, or financial advice. In an emergency, call 911. In a crisis, call or text 988.