Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Allsup Outlines Five Critical Issues For Caregivers Preparing To Take On Financial And Healthcare Responsibilities, USA

Each year millions of individuals suffer a sudden or progressive
impairment that makes it difficult or impossible for them to make sound
financial and healthcare decisions on their own, according to Allsup,
which offers services that support the financial well-being and health
of individuals with disabilities. Stepping in for these individuals are
caregivers, generally family or friends who don't have professional
financial consulting experience. In addition, these caregivers now are
in the very serious role of making critical decisions for the
individual they've agreed to care for.

"The most important
thing caregivers can do is to educate themselves on their
responsibilities once they've taken on this role," said Paul Gada, an
attorney and personal financial planning director of the Allsup Disability Life Planning Center .
"It's not easy and can be further complicated by the emotional
involvement the caregiver often has with the person they're caring for,
be it a spouse, parent, other close relative or friend.

"It's
also important, however, that caregivers recognize they are not alone
and that they seek help when they need it," Gada added.


Having committed to be a caregiver, there is a lot of work that will
need to be done. Following, Allsup outlines five crucial first steps.

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