Planning for Mom and Dad As we Boomers age and consider our financial and retirement situation, many of us have an additional concern with our parents. In planning for your parents, give thought to three key areas: finances, legal issues and available supports. Most people want to stay in their own homes. But later in life more help may be needed with activities such as: dressing, bathing, meal preparation and housekeeping. How will the support be provided? What finances will be needed for housing choices? Most people think of having a will for their heirs. But there are other legal documents to consider: a living will, health care power of attorney and power of attorney. These documents put your parents’ wishes in writing in case they can’t speak for themselves or lose the ability to make decisions on their own. Plan for the future by building a support system and talk with family and friends before help is needed. Don’t assume you know what others are willing to commit to doing. Find out about available and alternative options in community support. Answering the following questions early, will relieve stress later: • What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid—who pays for what? • What are the different types of in-home care and the general costs for the service? • Will my parent’s present home meet their needs even with physical disabilities? • What types of senior housing is available and what are the costs? • Is there financial assistance for our housing choices? • Are there public programs available to provide more support? • Do housing options have wait lists and how long is the list? • How much family support is available? Have you and your family talked about this? • How much help can be reasonably expected from friends and neighbors? Planning for long-term care is not easy, but the peace of mind is invaluable. After your plans are made, review them periodically, approximately every five years, as needs and public programs change over time. There are a variety of resources available to assist you. Call Senior Resources of Guilford’s Caregiver Coordinator in High Point, 883.3586 and 373.4816 for all other areas.