The sooner you begin planning, the more time you'll have to research options and make informed decisions. Assess your loved one's needs: Consider their physical, cognitive, and emotional needs to determine the level of care required. Gather information: Research different senior care options and their associated costs. Seek professional advice: Consider consulting with a geriatric care manager or elder law attorney for personalized guidance. Consider our Family Preparedness Kit to instantly feel you can organize your loved one’s life and feel less overwhelmed right from the start!

Senior Care Options can feel overwhelming. Attached are a few worksheets to better understand what to expect when looking at senior care options. As well as a cost comparison guide so you can compare costs and benefits of each.

• Independent Living: Ideal for seniors who can live independently but desire social activities and amenities.
• Assisted Living: Provides assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing and dressing.
• Memory Care: Specialized care for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities: Provides 24/7 medical care and assistance with all daily living activities.
• Home Care: In-home care services can provide a variety of support, from companionship to skilled nursing care. The best option for your loved one will depend on their specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors such as their level of independence, health conditions, and desired lifestyle.

We know the feeling. You have a pit in your stomach just thinking about having that conversation with your loved one, you can already anticipate their emotions. Attached we will share a role play example of having that challenging conversation. Use this example to prepare for your conversation. Be prepared and have a game plan! Here are a few more tips:

• Choose the right time: Select a calm and private moment when your loved one is feeling well and relaxed.
• Use "I" statements: Express your concerns and feelings without blaming or accusing.
• Focus on their well-being: Emphasize that you want to ensure their safety and happiness.
• Listen actively: Be open to their thoughts and feelings, and show empathy.

** Just remember, it's expected to have pushback after these difficult conversations. If you are still feeling stuck, schedule a time with one of our care coordinators for more specific advice for your particular situation.

Each family we work with has a unique family, financial and medical situation. Understanding the finances of your aging loved one is critical to know so you can make the most appropriate decisions and choices that are available to them.  Check out our Family Preparedness Kit, to instantly get your loved one’s finances and life organized and in order.

• Evaluate your loved one's finances: Assess their income, assets, and insurance coverage.
• Explore funding options: Consider Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, and private pay options.
• Create a financial plan: Develop a budget to estimate the costs of care and explore ways to manage expenses. Our Care Coordinators are available to help you better understand what funding options may be available to your aging loved one. 

Yes, you can. Geriatric care managers and elder law attorneys can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your loved one's needs. Book a care consulting call now to get personalized advice from our care coordinators. Our experts can make recommendations for Elder Law Attorneys and the appropriate people you should engage with to best organize your loved one’s care.  We can help you to clearly know and understand the available options for your loved one based on information provided by you to our care experts.

How do I create a care plan for my loved one? We would be happy to create and develop a care plan for your aging loved one with you. Working together to organize the best possible plan of care is our priority.  Together we will:

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  • Assess needs: Identify your loved one's physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.
  • Set goals: Determine what you want to achieve through caregiving.
  • Research options: Explore available care options and their costs.
  • Create a plan: Develop a comprehensive care plan that addresses your loved one's needs and aligns with your goals.
  • Review and adjust: Regularly review and adjust the care plan as your loved one's needs change. Having a care plan can not only provide much needed structure, but it offers peace of mind knowing you have a plan in place to address the needs of your aging loved one.

What if I'm unsure whether assisted living or home care is best? Attached is our Assisted Living Info Sheets and Homecare Benefits Sheet to better understand and compare the two options. Consider the following factors:

• Level of care: Does your loved one need assistance with daily living activities?
• Socialization: Does your loved one enjoy being around others?
• Budget: Assisted living can be more expensive than home care.
• Geographic location: Are there quality assisted living facilities in your area?

       Still confused? Let one of our Care Experts help you to know the best option for your family.

What are the signs that my loved one needs more care than they're currently receiving? Your aging loved one may need more care than you can provide, or they may be in a crisis situation. Either way you are feeling concerned that the care in place currently is not sufficient. Is your loved one experiencing any of the following?

• Increased difficulty with daily living activities
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Frequent accidents or falls
• Signs of neglect or isolation 

We often get to a point where we are forced to make decisions even if our aging loved one doesn’t agree or see eye to eye. Sometimes safety and peace of mind are the top priority? Need a plan for your situation? Book a call today with our Care Experts.

How do I keep my loved one involved in decision-making about their care? Involving your aging loved one in the decision-making process can often help them to feel better in understanding why they might need extra care and what they will receive in assistance with each available care option. 

• Communicate openly and honestly: Discuss your concerns and involve your loved one in the decision-making process.
• Respect their wishes: Consider their preferences and values when making decisions.
• Provide options: Offer a range of choices for care options and services.
• Involve other family members: Encourage family members to participate in discussions and decision-making. By addressing these questions and seeking professional guidance, you can create a comprehensive care plan that meets your loved one's needs and provides peace of mind for the entire family.

       Still confused? Let one of our Care Experts help you to know the best option for your family.