JULY 14, 2000
Staying Informed And Making Informed Decisions
By: Gail R Mitchell

Caring for a loved one is a huge responsibility. For 
many caregivers, there doesn't appear to be enough 
time in the day to take time out to research new 
advances in medicine, new medications, choices, and 
much more. I cannot stress the importance in doing 
this work. While it may appear that it interferes with 
your daily routines and responsibilities, think about 
the time it will save you in the long run when you 
are forced to do this work. By being aware in all the 
areas that are necessary, you and your loved one 
will benefit greatly by your preparation.

Finding Information:
Media:

·Internet
·Newspapers
·Radio
·Television
·Magazines
·Books
·Newsletters
·Pamphlets
·Videos

Other Sources:

·Associations and Organizations
·Hospitals
·Doctors, Nurses, Social Workers, 
 Professionals, Therapists
·Support Groups, Therapists
·Senior Centers
·Area Agency On Aging
·Elder Law Attorneys
·Assisted Living Facilities or Nursing Homes
·Childcare Facilities
·Friends and Family
·Legislators - Politicians
·The Person You Are Caring for

Making Informed Decisions:

Frequently, most likely, you will be thrown into 
the position of having to make a snap decision. 
Will you have enough knowledge to make a 
good decision?

I remember when my mother was rushed to the 
hospital. Tests revealed her salt levels were just 
a point or two above critical. Her symptoms were 
almost like a dementia, not recalling short-term 
events and remembering things from the past 
very clearly. The doctor warned me that they 
would have to delicately bring her salt levels 
back into balance or she might suffer permanent 
damage. There was a great deal of talk about 
her having to go into a rehabilitation facility. 
Thus began my in depth research for nursing 
homes and rehabilitation facilities by myself and 
with her social worker from the hospital. Having 
to make a decision without prior discussion as to 
what my mother would have wanted was heart 
wrenching. Knowing what was available and the 
choices available made it easier and comforting. 
What if this occurred while I was out of town on 
a business trip or vacationing? How could I have 
dealt with it then?
 
Caregivers tend to adjust and fall into a pattern 
when things are stable but what if an emergency 
crisis arises? What then?

The best thing you can do is to sit quietly for a 
few minutes and clear yourself of the emotional 
trauma that may have taken hold of you. Ask for 
guidance and direction from God or the Higher 
Power to help you make the best choice. 

Write down the decision that you are faced with. 
List two columns. Head one column “pros” and 
the other “cons.”

In filling in the columns ask yourself the 
following questions?

·Do I understand what is involved? 

·Do I need more information from doctors, 
 a professional, and your family?

·Is there anyone who can help me make this decision?

·Will the decision be for the highest good of the 
 carerecipient as well as yourself?

·Will the needs of your loved one be met?

·Will anyone be hurt or at risk as a result of the 
 decision?

·Must I make an immediate decision or can it wait?

Gather as much information from whatever resources 
you need to make a wise decision. Most of all keep 
your loved one informed and involved in the process 
if they have their mental faculties in tact. By 
weighing the pros and cons, you will be able to 
make a clearer more informed decision.

Remember to trust in your judgment. Know that 
all your decisions will work out for the highest good 
of those concerned. This will cut down on the guilt 
feelings you may experience as a result of the 
decisions. The phrase I keep in mind is that we are 
in the right place, at the right time for the right 
reasons. There is no right or wrong way when you 
approach your decision methods in this fashion.

Richest Blessings,
Gail


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of serving you. We welcome your 
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