Have a meeting with everyone involved in the support and care of your loved one. Be sure to listen to the wishes of the person needing assistance.

Assess specific potential assistance and support available from family, friends, neighbors and individuals who live or work closely to the care recipient.

Collect phone numbers of the care recipient's friends in the area where the care recipient lives in order to increase the communication within the support network. These numbers are also useful in emergency situations.

Learn about any health conditions that the care recipient may be facing. Asking the primary care physician a few pointed questions will provide this information.

What is the diagnosis of my loved one?

Is his/her condition treatable?

How will the condition progress?

What can I do to help now?

Is treatment covered under my loved one's insurance?

Where can I find more information about my loved one's condition?

Consider what home modifications may be necessary or useful such as grab bars, ramps, furniture, floor coverings and lighting.