Did you know that 87% of adults over the age of 65 want to stay in their current home as they age? The truth is, this may not be the best option. As you progress through your aging journey, your needs could change. That’s why so many older adults start creating senior care plan after they’re done planning retirement.
Sometimes it isn’t easy figuring out when to start planning for future care needs. But there’s no need to worry because we’ve got you covered. Here are the questions you should be asking yourself and your older loved ones when planning for the future:
Living at Home
Can I be safe in my home?
Think, “Will I have to spend a lot of money to make my home safe?” Your home may need renovations as you age, such as converting a bathtub into a walk-in shower and adding a bench or retrofitting different kitchen cabinets into easier-to-reach options. Stairs may become too difficult to manage. You may need a grab bar next to the toilet. Your senior care plan should detail the cost of any renovations you’ll need. That way you can make a direct comparison of those costs to the cost of a senior living community.
Do I want to live near, or with, my children or other relatives?
Many life plans for older adults start off assuming that they will move in with their child when they grow older, with visions of taking care of grandkids and saving money. Before you make this decision, ask yourself if you will have enough privacy.
Ask your children what they will expect from you while you consider what you expect of them. Focus on questions like, “What happens if my health deteriorates and I’m unable to shower alone?” and “How much do you expect me to contribute financially?”
Can I afford to perform maintenance on the house I currently live in?
Consider the cost of lawn care, snow removal, and household repairs. Will you be able to pay for these household expenses when you are unable to perform them yourself? Your senior care plan should expect these costs to increase with inflation. In fact, having household maintenance taken care of is one of the key benefits of many senior living communities.
Activities of Daily Living
If I can’t drive, how will I get places?
No life plan for older adults is complete without considering transportation. When you are unable to drive yourself, you will need to know of other transportation options for everything from doctor appointments to trips to the grocery store. These range from public transportation, to car services, to depending on your friends and family. Are any of these options viable for you?
Am I or will I be isolated?
Seniors with high levels of loneliness and isolation double their odds of dying within six years, while increased socialization has been shown to lead to a 50% decrease in premature death among older adults. Reflect, “Will I be able to see my family and friends regularly?” and “Are there enough social activities for me to get to?” If you’re having trouble finding activities to participate in, senior living communities have events that can get you started.
Will I be able to take care of myself?
Your senior care plan should consider these activities of daily living (also known as ADLs): “Will I be able to prepare nutritious meals?” “Will I be able to manage my medications properly?” “Can I bathe on my own and be safe?” “Can I dress myself?” When you are no longer able to complete one or more of these activities on your own, you will need to bring in extra help or make the move to a senior living community.
Costs vary on the amount of care needed for both. The national median cost of home health services in 2016 was $42,603 based on 44 hours of service per week. Base pricing per person, per month at Luther Manor starts at $1,100 in our Independent Living apartments, $4,500 in Assisted Living, and $10,500 for Skilled Nursing care.
Finances & Long-Term Planning
What happens if I run out of money?
Many life plans for older adults start with meeting with a financial planner to determine the best course of fiscal action. Be realistic about the costs of care and consider payment options if your benefits under Medicaid or Medicare are cut. Many non-profit senior communities provide support for residents who have exhausted their finances and will advise on the ways to apply for federal financial aid. However, most retirement communities require new residents to pay out of pocket for a certain time and may not offer monetary assistance. It’s important to ask regarding finances when exploring senior care options.
Does my family understand my senior care plan?
Ask yourself, “Are my wishes clear to my loved ones?” and “Have I designated people to speak for me if I can’t speak for myself?” Make sure your wishes are in writing and you’ve discussed them in detail with your loved ones! If you’re wondering when to start planning for future care needs, the truth is you can never start too soon.
An elder law attorney is a perfect place to start. He or she can help you establish a medical and financial power of attorney, and will advise on completing Do Not Resuscitate orders, draw up a will or living trust, and more.
Professional Resources are Available at Luther Manor
There’s a lot to consider when planning for your future, but there are resources available to help! Consider meeting with a financial planner, consulting an Elder Care Attorney, and touring senior living communities in your area well before you are planning on needing services.
If you need some assistance in the next step of your retirement planning or senior care plan, reach out to one of our friendly Senior Living Advisors at Luther Manor. Just contact us online or call 414.464.3880 today.
