With advancing age comes a time when a loved one needs more care. The death of a spouse may trigger a realization that Mom or Dad cannot live alone, the stairs may be just too steep or the house just too much. Signs of memory loss may be easier to identify, such as forgotten food moldering, a weekly pill case sitting full or money missing from an account without explanation.
Alleviating the stress of caring for parents and children
The proverbial sandwich generation is growing as baby boomers set longevity records. The challenge becomes the need to be around more for an aging father - after the recent death of my mother - while also helping a daughter transition to college and another succeed in high school. In the 40s or 50s, especially for women, it can mean juggling work, expenses, being a role model and honoring the promise to a mother or father.
Colorado creates electronic advance medical directive system
We have news to share with readers about another development regarding Colorado advance medical directives. On Aug. 2, a new state law took effect establishing a statewide electronic system for advance medical directives. The bill creates an online depository for advance medical directives accessible by doctors, hospitals and emergency medical personnel for direction in providing medical care to Coloradans when they are unable to express their treatment wishes because of medical incapacity.
Colorado governor approves psychiatric advance directives
Coloradans already have the power to execute medical advance directives in which they can appoint agents to make medical decisions for them should they become unable to communicate their wishes. They can also provide instructions for future and end-of-life medical treatment in case of incapacity.
