• Can my condition be treated?
• How will this condition affect my vision now and in the future?
• Should I watch for any particular symptoms and notify you if they occur?
• Should I make any lifestyle changes?

ABOUT MY TREATMENT

• What is the treatment for my condition?
• When will the treatment start, and how long will it last?
• What are the benefits of this treatment, and how successful is it?
• What are the risks and side effects associated with this treatment?
• Are there foods, drugs, or activities I should avoid while I'm on this treatment?
• If my treatment includes taking a medication, what should I do if I miss a dose?
• Are other treatments available?

ABOUT MY TESTS

• What kinds of tests will I have?
• What do you expect to find out from these tests?
• When will I know the results?
• Do I have to do anything special to prepare for any of the tests?
• Do these tests have any side effects or risks?
• Will I need more tests later?

Understanding your doctor's responses is essential to good communication. Here are a few more tips:

• If you don't understand your doctor's responses, ask questions until you do understand.
• Take notes, or get a friend or family member to take notes for you. Or, bring a tape-recorder to assist in your recollection of the discussion.
• Ask your doctor to write down his or her instructions to you.
• Ask your doctor for printed material about your condition.
• If you still have trouble understanding your doctor's answers, ask where you can go for more information.
• Other members of your health care team, such as nurses and pharmacists, can be good sources of information. Talk to them, too.

PHOTOCOPY ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS

Here are the documents you'll need to keep copies of:

• Birth certificate
• Driver's license
• Social Security card
• Medicare / Medicaid / insurance coverage card
• Organ donor card
• Marriage certificate
• Credit cards
• Mortgage records
• Military records
• Legal Power of Attorney, Healthcare Proxy, Living Will, Advance Directives

CREATE A LIST OF WHERE TO FIND ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS

You'll also need to know the location of the following documentation and other essentials:

• Safe-deposit box and key, along with a list of the contents and names of anyone who has access to it
• Any letter of instruction listing personal property not disposed of by will and wishes for distribution
• Receipts and appraisals for valuables
• Trust, banking and loan information
• Tax returns
• Insurance policies
• Stocks, bonds, real estate and other investments
• Living will, medical directives or Durable Power of Attorney
• Birth certificate, Social Security card, marriage and divorce certificates, education and military records
• Burial plots and desired funeral arrangements.

CREATE A LIST OF IMPORTANT CONTACTS & ACCOUNTS

You'll need contact information for the following contacts, as appropriate:

• Clergy members
• Attorney, financial planner, tax advisor, broker and/or anyone else with knowledge of or control over trusts, wills and finances
• Beneficiaries
• Bank account, loan and credit card contacts
• Insurance agents

This syndrome is also sometimes seen in older people who are in recovery from surgery in a hospital setting. Persons may exhibit increased confusion, agitation, wandering, hallucinations and general disorientation. For those living with or caring for someone exhibiting "sundowning" symptoms it can be quite startling and often intensely frustrating.

Although the following care tips may sound extreme, it has been shared that once a routine is set, life becomes a lot easier when caring for someone with Sundowners. Not all of these ideas will work for everyone; through experimentation you may find the right formula for your situation.

CARE TIPS FOR SUNDOWNERS SYNDROME

• Allow for light exposure in the early morning to help set an internal clock.
• Daytime napping should be discouraged to help regulate the sleep cycle.
• Encourage exercise throughout the day to expend excess energy.
• Limit caffeine intake, particularly in the afternoon.
• Plan activities during the day so there is sufficient time to transition into the evening.
• Create a private space for relaxing.
• When you sense agitation coming on, try a five-minute hand massage or just hand holding for a few minutes. It is good to get in front of this and not wait until it progresses.
• Music or other sounds like ocean waves or singing birds can be calming.
• Interaction with a pet has also been known to calm agitation.
• Consider purchasing a bedside commode. Leaving his or her bed to use the restroom can start the cycle all over again, making it hard to get back to sleep.
• Take precautions to provide a safe space for him or her at night so that you can get a solid night's rest, even if your loved one needs to stay awake and wander.
• Maintain a comfortable temperature in the bedroom; extreme temperatures may disrupt sleep or prevent one from falling asleep.
• Talk to your doctor about the many medications on the market that support those with Sundowners.

Intense and visceral frustration for family members and caregivers is not uncommon when dealing with loved ones experiencing episodes of Sundowners. Outbursts and strange demands are not unusual and not always under their control, requiring extreme patience on the part of family members and caregivers in order to make it through these episodes. Like pets and kids, you will need to experiment in order to discern the right pattern and methods for your family. Following these tips above may make your life easier by bringing rhythm to your loved one's life, thus positively impacting your life.

1. COMMUNITY LIVING MEANS LOSING PRIVACY & INDEPENDENCE

Truth: You'll have your own space without the hassles. Privacy and independence should be maintained when living in a senior assisted living community. Most communities provide you with a choice of spacious apartments with different floor plans and separate entrances. You are free to furnish your apartment with your own furniture and personal items. The doors to your apartment lock and are controlled by you. You should also feel at home and absolutely secure in your environment.

2. MOVING AWAY FROM FAMILY MEANS NO ONE WILL BE AROUND TO HELP

Truth: Communities have built in safety and security measures along with 24-hour staff. Senior assisted living communities are designed to reduce the worry that often comes from living alone. Features are in place to respond quickly and immediately to you in the event that you need someone to help you.

3. MOVING TO A COMMUNITY MEANS SAYING GOODBYE TO HOBBIES SUCH AS GARDENING

Truth: Community life usually means that seniors are more active than they were living alone. Many facilities have gardening programs for residents in addition to fitness programs, bingo, cards, and book clubs.Studies have shown that people who are active and engaged are healthier and happier. Extensive activity programs give all residents options and choices tailored to their specific needs, desires, and even lifestyle. These programs reduce the isolation felt when living alone.

As we get older, our lives change-often in unexpected ways. You don't have to be alone in facing these changes. Senior assisted living is a viable option and can enhance your quality of life empowering you to live that life the way you want to.