Considering
the Care Years
By
Kate McCarthy, Director of Operations at HomeAid Health Care
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| Prepare in advance for the years ahead. |
Many
medical advances have been made which help people enjoy a longer life span than
ever before. New medications and surgical
techniques enable people to live longer, yet the quality of life during those
gained years remains a concern for most seniors. Health issues plus physical and mental changes
due to the natural aging process require consideration and preparation. Being prepared for the Care Years calls for
planning that should be done long in advance.
Most
people recognize that there are two major stages that people experience when
entering their senior years. There are
the well-deserved, relaxed and independent years that people look forward to
when retiring. Then there are years
marked by changing health and increasing dependency on others. These are the Care Years. Despite the need for additional assistance,
the Care Years can be a very fulfilling time in a person’s life, if they are
prepared.
It is a good idea to make a plan about how to manage the Care Years long before they arrive. Here are some of the issues to consider:
· Documentation
issues. Be sure that all your necessary financial,
legal and insurance documents are up-to-date and are in order.
· Health
Plan Issues. Be sure your health plan
takes into consideration the financial impact of any changing health needs.
· Medical
Issues. Be sure to discuss all
medications taken and their potential side effects with your health care
provider. Consider being proactive about possible medical concerns long before
they become a problem.
·
Safety
Issues. Be sure to prepare your home
with necessary safety measures to prevent accidents or falls. Stylish additions
and improvements can be made to the kitchen and bathroom which enable a person
to remain safely at home rather than having to move into a facility.
· Cognitive
Issues. Be aware of the subtle signs of
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and know where to turn to for help.
· Medical
Emergency Issues. Be sure to know what
to do and who to call if an emergency occurs.
· Assistance
Issues. Be aware of all community and
government programs available that assist with senior health issues. Also
consider what additional help will be needed and where to find that assistance.
· End-of-Life
issues. Be sure that there is a written
Will, power of attorney has been established on your behalf and family members
know your preferences.
There
are a wide range of care options available for seniors once they are in their
Care Years. There are home based medical
and non-medical services, rehabilitation services, skilled nursing services,
adult daycare services and assisted living facilities and nursing home
facilities. Each option meets specific
needs of the elderly and should be considered according to the amount of care
needed.
It
is also wise to consider the cost of the Care Years in advance. Estimating the amount of coverage provided by
your insurance carrier, Medicaid as well as what will have to be paid for
privately helps when working out financial considerations for the future.
There
are a lot of issues to consider with aging, but it is easier to enjoy life when
you are ready for the Care Years in advance.
Kate McCarthy is Director of
Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides non-medical home services
for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is a sister company to Prairie
Home Assisted Living which has served the
physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents
since 1999. Together the two
companies provide comprehensive care that meets the needs of the elderly in
Appleton, Neenah, Menasha and around the Fox Valley.
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