No matter what is currently going on across America, we cannot lose sight of the fact that our aging loved ones still have care needs that may not be able to me met with their own homes. Now, perhaps more than ever, there may be limited resources available to help our aging loved ones age in place. Unfortunately, with this reality potentially approaching, your loved ones may need to look at moving to long-term care facilities at some point in the future. We know you may have question including, but not limited to, the following:
If I cannot be there in person, how will my mother or father prepare food?
How will my aging loved ones go to doctors’ appointments?
Will he or she be safe in the event of a medical emergency?
What if my aging loved one becomes bedridden?
How will we be able to afford the cost of a nursing home or assisted living facility?
We know you may have these questions and more as we face this challenging time. Let us share a few key insights that may be able to help you navigate this long-term care maze right now.
1. Finding the care your loved ones need. Not all long-term care facilities are the same, nor do they provide the same services. While there are similarities, there may be differences that could impact your loved one’s treatment plan. For example, does your loved one need help with medication management but not ambulating? Or, is your loved one prone to wandering, but does not need extra medical attention? Knowing what your loved one needs and then speaking with potential facilities, can help all involved make the right care plan.
2. Determining how you will be able to afford the care that is needed. The cost of long-term care can be high. Unfortunately, there are only limited dollars available from programs such as Medicare. Luckily, other government programs such as Medicaid and VA Pension exist and can help cover some of these expenses. Do not wait to talk to us about how we can help you afford the cost of the care a loved one needs.
3. Ensuring South Dakota estate planning is up-to-date. The steps you may be able to take to help an aging loved one may be limited if you do not have the legal authority you need to act. You may need both financial and health care decision making power as you move forward with your loved one. Talk to them openly about their powers of attorney, including their advance directives. These estate planning tools are an essential part of the process.
We help South Dakota seniors and their loved ones face these challenges every day. We encourage you not to wait to contact us to schedule a meeting to discuss your questions. We are here to support you now, and at any point in the future.
Comments