If Plan A is Aging in Place, What is Your Plan B?

We hear stories like these:

• Linda knew that her husband’s health was declining, and she also knew she was getting closer to the time she wouldn’t have the strength to care for him as his Parkinson’s advanced. She needed to figure out the best options for great care at a price she could afford and a distance she was able to travel to visit him. 
• Mary cared for her mom for nine years in her home. She wanted to continue, but she also knew her care may become too great for her. She wanted to determine the best options for before they needed them, so it wouldn’t be a sudden move or surprise for her mom. 
• Mark cared for his spouse, Jean, with early onset Alzheimer’s for many years. He had found adult day to be a great help so he could continue working. His health started to decline, and he ended up in the hospital with a heart scare. He knew he needed to figure out options in case his wife needed to be placed. He especially wanted an option that could provide a short-term respite stay so he could get a week to recoup.

Assess Your Situation

As you age, especially if you are caring for a spouse or loved one, you need to be realistic about your situation. Things to consider are:

• Who do you go to for support when you need help with tasks, transportation, shopping, medical appointments, or just a listening ear?
• Is your home safe and accessible? Can technology, other equipment or modifications help your environment?
• Financially, what can you afford for options and care as you age? Do you have a trusted financial advisor, or do you need one? Are there things you need to take care of now rather than waiting, such as Power of Attorney documents and beneficiary changes?

Creating a Plan B

Find a reputable Senior Living Advisor who:

• Is local, has good reviews or comes highly recommended, and has at least 3 years of experience
• Will set up an initial face-to-face appointment
• Wants to get to know your unique situation through a detailed discussion and intake conversation
• Educates you on all the options for placement and will offer a respite stay
• Comes up with a plan to tour several communities

Here’s what you can do:

• Have tour options for communities you’ve identified as top choices
• Get on the wait list for your top two communities
• Check in with your Senior Living Advisor regularly

Practical Reasons to Use a Senior Living Advisor

• Saves you time in narrowing down the best options for your needs, finances, etc.
• They will educate you on all the options