Aging gracefully is a nice idea, but it requires work and planning. As we get older, the chances of us or a loved one requiring some type of care increase greatly.
It may seem like a lot of work but it is worth it. Having a care plan in place means less worry and hassle and puts you in control of the situation.
What is a Senior Care Plan?
A care plan is anticipating the type of care you may need in the future. It means you need to be able to identify what care and services a person may need and who will be providing them.
Identify Their Needs
While you may not be able to see into the future, you can still base the basic needs plan on what you do know. A few issues you can identify are:
- Physical abilities
- Mental abilities
- Home Safety
- Declining health
- Hearing
- Vision
- Mobility
- Self-care
When you look at these items, you will be able to eliminate the ones you won’t need and start narrowing down a plan for the ones you will need.
Decide on Support
Once you understand what will be needed for care, you can start to find ways to make sure those supports are going to be in place when the time comes.
This will include making sure the finances are available. This is where planning will come in very handy. Before you need the care, make sure it can be paid for.
Will you or your loved one be able to stay at home? This is a big decision. Ideally, you want to be able to keep your loved one in their own home or with family for as long as possible.
Can family members take care of the support needed or will you need to hire someone? This is another area to look at. Sharing the responsibility with family and caregivers can be very beneficial.
Financial Support
Depending on the type of care required, you will need to think about the cost. There are government programs you can look at, insurance may help, or personal savings and family support.
You want what is best for your loved one, and this is why it is vital for you to start planning early for their care. Being prepared will remove the strain and stress that can accommodate situations that become serious or an emergency.
Safety First
Quality of life is key, so anticipating their caring needs will save you a lot of worry, time, and money. You want your loved one to be comfortable and in good care.
- They may need help with cooking or cleaning around the house. You may be able to share these tasks with siblings or other family members
- They may need someone to drive them to appointments, activities, or doctor appointments. Consider family members, taxi or car service vouchers, or a pre-paid app
For those with mobility concerns, ensuring their home is safe is key. Removing obstacles like rugs, mats, and small tables, and making sure they can move through the house.
Install grab rails in the bathroom, build a ramp for easier access to the home, and modify the shower or tub to allow someone to remain at home and stay safe. A Medial Alert system provides an extra layer of security with fast access to help at the press of a button.
Further care may be required if they are showing advanced symptoms. Memory loss care facilities, adult day care centers, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes may also need to be considered.
Be Prepared
Whether it is for yourself, a parent, or any loved one, you want the best for them, and you. While it is difficult to have these conversations, the sooner you do it, the better.
Always involve the person concerned. Ask them what they want and try to stick to their wishes as closely as possible. Involve all family members and encourage them to be involved in the whole process.
Finding the care you will need before you need it will ensure a smooth transition, whatever it may be. Often, getting everything in place and anticipating the care and support you will need will help everyone maintain quality of life.
