Most people prefer not to even think about an elder loved one falling into ill health or physical decline, but it's a situation that practically everyone faces eventually. "USA Today" cites a USA Today/ABC News/Gallup poll reporting that 41 percent of baby boomers with a living parent are assisting with the parent's care either directly or through financial support. As difficult as it may be, you and your elder relative can benefit from planning now for her future care.
Step 1
Discuss your elderly loved one's wishes. This is likely to be a difficult conversation and should be broached gently. "USA Today" recommends opening the conversation by bringing up your own retirement plans, will, or elder-care wishes. You can then ask what your parent or other elder would want in terms of assisted living, nursing homes or home care. Reassure them that you will support them and respect their wishes as much as you can.
Step 2
Make the most minor changes possible at each juncture. This will help your elder to adapt to each change gradually rather than overwhelming them, says the U.S. Department of State. Understand that your elder may have difficulty accepting any loss of independence, so do your best to keep these changes small whenever possible.
Step 3
Set aside funds for potential emergencies. This will prepare you for any last-minute trips you might need to make, or any unexpected provisions you'll need to make. You can discuss creating a collective fund with your siblings. "USA Today" emphasizes that it is important not to wait until emergencies happen to address them.
Step 4
Discuss insurance options for your elder. You might assume that Medicare will provide for your elder relative's long-term needs, but this is not entirely true, reports the U.S. Department of State. While Medicare covers up to 60 days in a nursing home, it doesn't provide for long-term care in such facilities. Consider the possibility of additional insurance for your elder, such as long-term care insurance or "Medigap," an ancillary private insurance.
Step 5
Tackle the necessary legal documents. Again, this will be difficult, since it will touch on painful eventualities, but doing this in advance can prevent some unpleasant struggles later on. According to Seniors Inc.org, you'll need the following documents: a will, a living will, power of attorney, durable medical power of attorney, health-care proxy, property deeds and birth certificate. Keep these documents in a safe place that you'll remember.
Tips and Warnings
- Consider a home renovation. Your parents' home may need to be adapted to their age and physical needs. This step could help them retain their independence longer.
- Don't make promises you're not sure you can keep. For instance, "USA Today" cautions against saying, "I'll never put you in a nursing home." As much as you might mean this, you can't be sure how the situation might develop in the future. Know the limits of long-term care insurance. While this can be very useful, your elder might not qualify if he has certain preexisting health problems, says "USA Today."
Member Comments