An elder law attorney (or an otherwise trusted and qualified attorney)
As the disease progresses, your parent will need more help managing legal and financial affairs. While not absolutely necessary, an elder law attorney is particularly fit to help with decisions regarding such things as durable power of attorney and healthcare proxies, asset management (such as through a living trust), and conservatorship.
A power of attorney is a document that permits someone specifically named (an "attorney-in-fact") to make legal decisions for someone else, even if that person becomes incapacitated mentally or physically. A specific kind of durable power of attorney that is especially relevant to Alzheimer's care (and other medical care) allows the attorney-in-fact to make healthcare decisions for the person when she is no longer able to do so herself; the attorney-in-fact is then also called a healthcare proxy. A legal document granting conservatorship gives someone specifically named (a "curator" or "guardian") the legal right and responsibility to manage the care, finances, and/or personal matters of someone who has lost the mental or physical abilities to do so for herself.
Caregiver emotional supporter(s)
Caregiver stress is likely to be a part of your own future -- especially if you provide primary care -- and is best addressed before it becomes a serious problem. Caregiver risks include depression and burnout, which is why a caregiver team should include at least one person who provides support to the caregiver.
This person could be a professional such as a therapist (social worker, psychologist, psychiatrist) or a friend or family member. The ideal candidate is a good listener who knows you well and is willing and available to provide comfort or counsel when the need arises. Additionally, it's useful to line up key people who could step in and help with simple practical matters, like running an errand or, if it's someone your parent is familiar with, giving her a ride or taking over for you for a couple of hours.
A religious or spiritual guide (or clergy)
Given the emotional and psychological changes in store for both you and your parent, you may find it helpful to confide in someone with a religious or spiritual background. This may be a religious leader, such as a priest, minister, or rabbi, with whom your family is already familiar. Many religious institutions provide Alzheimer's-specific programs. You may prefer a nonprofessional confidante who can lend a kind ear and compassionate, hopeful, and faith-based reassurance.
