Looking for some help to point me in the right direction for getting help with an elderly family member who may/may not have dementia. He is showing symptoms- hearing voices, very paranoid, seeing things, he can be quite vague at times, he says the voices are people talking about him and his past. I have taken him to our gp who has referred him to a Geriatrician but it is a 3 month wait. Not sure where to go from here....we live with him and have a young family and a new baby due very soon. Any help or advice is truely appreciated!
2 Replies
Unfortunately a 3 month wait is about normal and if it's the public system that's a very short wait. Make sure the clinic he has been referred to is aware you would accept a cancellation appointment.
If you need help managing his care needs in the mean time contact your local council. Most councils offer respite care, cleaning, shopping services, self care help for the elderly for a tiny fee and that could really help ease the pressure. You are also able to refer him to meals on wheels if that would benefit him.
If you think he will need nursing home care in the near future ring a local nursing home and they can explain the process of who to apply to for funding in your state. Most nursing homes run open days so you can tour them and decide which ones you like and apply for places.
Contact the Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) in your area for help. You might need some help from your GP on this but it might help fill some gaps until he can be assessed by the geriatrician.