Have You Planned for Your Future – Looking at How and Where You Will Age?

Have You Planned for Your Future – Looking at How and Where You Will Age? Or Are You Waiting to See What Happens?

We are all aging quite differently than our parents and grand- parents. Although we are not all the same, the common denominator and differentiator is the power of making informed choices. Elders that I work with facing the challenges of aging alone are looking for support. Children who are worried about their parents with aging care concerns are overwhelmed with responsibilities and looking for expert guidance for their loved ones. Proactive seniors are looking to replace the fear of not knowing with the knowledge needed to properly plan for their future. They all have questions, and it is our privilege to provide the answers. I have plenty of questions of my own and some tips –

Living a Purposeful Live – Many elders are living alone with little or no opportunity to share their wisdom with their family or others. Although aging in place at home is ideal for some it can be isolating for others. Social engagement is critical for all of us, especially elders. We all can find purpose implementing a daily routine, engaging in creative or meaningful activities as simple as storytelling or singing, volunteering or mentoring, and joining a group helps us provide purpose and meaning to others, increasing our “feel-good” endorphins.

Health and Wealth Balance - We are living longer despite the pandemic. It is inevitable that we will experience some health challenges along the way. Are we all prepared to pay for the rising cost of care? Do we understand the benefits we have and what they will and will not cover? Will we outlive our wealth? The “How To” answer to the questions is arming yourself with knowledge, making informed choices and creating a plan with built in support reducing uncertainty, improving quality of life and avoiding financial challenges. There are solutions for everyone!

Aging in Place –As we enter each chapter of aging, we have opportunities to explore the various options of Aging in Place ~ starting in our homes and then elsewhere. My challenge has always been, why am I waiting until the moment something is needed before exploring all the options available. What do I not know that I don’t know? Exceptional support and detailed information are invaluable in navigating the maze of options, knowing what resources are available and how to access them is the insurance that covers worry and despair.

Caring for a Loved One– Often times family caregivers are juggling much more than is humanly possible. We are dedicated to supporting our loved ones and forget to take care of ourselves. The symbiotic relationship we have with the elders we are caring for often prevents us from seeing life and caregiving objectively. Caregiver stress is very real, and its impact can be severe. Asking for help is necessary and the most important thing you can do for your elderly loved one, not to mention for yourself. Without the caregiver ~ what happens to our elders?

Elena M. Goggin Founder & Director elena@elderlcp.com