Maintaining Physical Independence Our cognition dwindles with age, but so does our body. In fact, our physical health often goes first. It can be hard to notice the small and gradual physical declines from day to day, which can make it difficult to know when we need to start asking for help. The relative rates at which our bodies start to give out are what separate us, and will ultimately [...]
Cognitive health allows us to make decisions and perform tasks through thought, experience, and the senses. Naturally, with age, our cognitive abilities will decline which impacts our ability to recall or remember, perform simple math, and the ability to reason or judge. When our cognition starts to diminish, the feeling of overwhelm may take over while we try to keep up with everything as if nothing has changed. As an [...]
6 Ways to Support Independence At Home (While Social Distancing) During this difficult time, many elders are vulnerable, isolated, alone and likely afraid. Together we can keep them safe and encourage a sense of community, despite social distancing. We have put together a list of activities that your clients can engage with to help them maintain their independence. Each activity supports a different area of independence: cognitive, physical, financial, emotional, [...]
Much has been written regarding “getting your affairs in order.” Too often planning is geared towards incapacity; a will, power of attorney, and advanced directives are created. What is overlooked is the importance of planning for what happens in the years prior to incapacity. There is a stage between independence and incapacity that require careful planning. The interdependent stage of aging is when the person can manage their life but [...]
Aging alone is challenging and scary! “Solo Elders” is the term used to describe older individuals who have no partner or children. This can also include seniors with children who are estranged. Often, estate planning and long- term care are the biggest issues they face. They do not know who to leave their estate to and they are concerned about who will care for them. In addition, they face fears of isolation and loneliness. [...]
Most of us don't wake up one morning and realize we can no longer care for ourselves. The process of aging involves multiple stages; some of us will experience all of these while others go through a few. Each stage is unique. Understanding these stages will help you prepare for them so, whether aging alone or with a partner, you will be ready for whatever lies ahead. The stages include [...]
So, you planned ahead. You purchased long term care insurance (LTCI). You paid the premiums religiously. You think that, when the time comes, you’ll just file a claim and receive a check. The process seems simple enough. Think again. Most LTCI policies require that the insured demonstrate either cognitive decline, as determined by the insurer, or show an inability to complete three activities of daily living (e.g., eating, dressing, personal [...]
As published by RTD. AARP states that 87% of adults over 65 want to stay in their current homes as they age. However, realistic planning and the necessary conversations surrounding these logistics are often neglected. Far too many consider this planning to be an end of life issue which is anxiety provoking. I encourage you to view aging in place planning as an opportunity. You are planning on how to [...]
As published by Independence Advisors, May 14, 2018. We have all heard the story about: The grandmother who fell victim to a financial scam The widow’s house that fell into disrepair The son who had to take Dad’s driver’s license away because he crashed the car These costly mistakes may have been avoided had the individuals relinquished responsibility for the tasks before they were no longer capable of managing them. [...]
As published in the Montgomery County Estate Planning Council Spring 2017 News Letter. For many older adults, life after retirement is busy and full of meaning. Grandkids, volunteer work, travel and hobbies keep them active, engaged and full of life. But inevitably, something happens — an illness, a fall, the death of a spouse, or even a mild cognitive decline — and life becomes more stressful and difficult. Daily tasks [...]
