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What Now?

Although it is a difficult subject to talk about, your loved one’s end-of-life wishes should be discussed now. So many families never touch on this subject, and, then at the time of death, quick decisions must be made quickly through a veil of grief. Honor your loved one’s memory by finding out now what they want.

Learning more about your loved one’s condition is easier than ever thanks to a little invention called the Internet. Although it may be difficult to find many web sites on the specific condition MCI, there are numerous web sites on Alzheimer’s disease and all of its stages. When you learn about your loved one’s condition and then pass on that information to your family and friends you become an advocate for your loved one and his or her condition. Advocates can affect changes in the quality of care and even legislature, and it is one of the most important things you can do for both of you. Somewhere along the path of your education, you will find out all you can about the treatments presently used for your loved one’s condition. Because MCI is a relatively new concept, doctors use the medications and treatments that have been designated for AD. There is no cure yet, but the medications used now can slow the progression for up to almost two years. This can keep your loved one at home for longer and give you more quality time together.

AD, of which MCI is a part, is one of the most researched diseases in the world. There are numerous local and national research projects in progress, and most of these include clinical trials. You might consider a clinical trial for your loved one for several reasons:

Active participation in your loved one’s health care 

Getting your loved one the finest medical care at leading facilities 

Your loved one being the first to benefit from treatments not yet available to the public

Helping others

Of course you and your loved one must give informed consent. But think of all the good you could do—not only for yourselves, but for future generations. Once again, it’s about taking charge and advocating for your loved one’s care. 

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