The conversation around moving an older loved one into a senior living community can be a difficult one. Still, it’s made easier by highlighting the many health and social benefits of senior living.
Caring for aging loved ones as they face physical and mental declines is a stressful reality for millions of Americans. A significant decision is whether the senior can remain in their own home, which is typically their preference, or if they require the specialized care provided by a senior living community.
“It’s a tough conversation, and unfortunately, it often takes certain critical events for individuals to realize it’s time to make the decision,” says Lisa Honka, owner of Your Key To Senior Living Options. Her company helps find the most suitable community for seniors based on their medical and financial needs.
“Often, it’s a reactive situation rather than proactive. We get calls like, ‘My mom is in rehab and can’t go back home. She’s fallen several times, and we’re worried about her safety.’ Such incidents usually prompt the conversation, though occasionally, we encounter proactive clients who notice early signs of decline in their parents. It’s one of the primary reasons we do so much education around planning for that crisis that will occur. It’s not if it’s when.”
A common hurdle is the misperception about senior living communities.
The Health and Social Benefits of Senior Living
Many people think of nursing homes as places where one goes at the end of life, but in reality, most seniors experience a better quality of life and more fulfilling lives in these communities. They are less isolated and enjoy better health and nutrition.
Honka explains three main types of senior living communities: Independent living for those in good health who want a maintenance-free, social lifestyle; assisted living for seniors needing help with daily activities and healthcare; and memory care for dementia or Alzheimer’s patients. Some communities offer a combination of these services.
“It’s not as simple as choosing the community around the corner,” Honka says. “Different communities have various licenses and skill sets regulated by the state, and their pricing varies. It is more complicated than most people realize. Having a professional by your side as you navigate the complex maze of options is very helpful for seniors and families.”
Your Key To Senior Living Options guide families through this process by providing an overview of available communities, scheduling and accompanying them on tours, and answering any questions.
“We’re often compared to realtors for senior living,” Honka explains. “We assess the senior’s clinical and medical needs and match them with the appropriate community that fits their care requirements and budget.”
This support is invaluable and free of charge for adult children balancing their own lives, as the chosen community compensates Your Key To Senior Living Options after the family chooses.
“Doing this alone can be overwhelming and time-consuming,” Honka says. “Using a service like ours can expedite the process and ensure a better match for the senior’s needs.”
Honka and her team encourage seniors to tour local communities to find the right fit. Many seniors have preconceived notions about senior living, and touring and experiencing life in a community can alleviate fear and apprehension. Many communities offer lunch, tours, and event participation to showcase their environment.
Finding the right community can significantly improve a senior’s well-being, especially for those who are isolated or depressed. Engaging in social activities, rediscovering hobbies, or trying new ones can profoundly impact their quality of life.
Staying active is key to a long, fulfilling life, Honka says. It improves brain function and increases self-confidence. Community fitness programs provide opportunities for group travel and activities that wouldn’t be possible if living alone.
Understanding Power of Attorney (POA) – FAQ’s
One critical aspect of estate planning for seniors is establishing a power of attorney (POA). This legal document allows an appointed agent, often an adult child, to make financial decisions on behalf of the senior, especially if they become incapacitated.
Is it common for people to request POAs for aging parents?
Yes, but it’s important to understand that the parent must give a POA while they are still capable of understanding what they are signing. They must agree to it, so we encourage those requesting a POA for a parent to have their parent contact us.
Is the process lengthy?
No, it’s straightforward. We send an estate-planning questionnaire to gather the necessary information. While children can assist with this, the documents must be signed by the parent. We recommend a full estate planning package, including a will, POA, and health care surrogate, as each document plays a vital role. The POA is crucial as it allows someone to assist during the parent’s lifetime.
What if there’s no POA, and the individual becomes incapacitated?
Guardianship might be the only option without a valid POA, which is expensive and time-consuming.
What types of POA exist?
We typically use durable POAs, which remain effective even if the person becomes incapacitated. In Florida, a durable POA becomes effective immediately upon signing. Limited POAs can be used for specific transactions, such as real estate.
What should be known about POAs?
POAs can include specific powers essential for long-term care planning. It’s important to understand these powers and trust the appointed agent completely. Remember, POAs are always revocable.
Are there downsides to being an agent?
Being an agent doesn’t make you responsible for the principal’s debts. However, you are responsible for your actions as the agent, so acting in the principal’s best interests is crucial. Always sign as the POA to avoid personal liability, especially in assisted living or nursing home contracts.
Understanding and establishing a POA can ensure that the senior’s financial and healthcare decisions are handled appropriately, providing peace of mind for the senior and their family.
CONCLUSION
Moving to a senior living community has many health and social benefits. Families can utilize a free service like Your Key To Senior Living Options to navigate the complex process of finding the right community that meets the medical and financial needs of the senior. Power of Attorney can help ensure financial and healthcare decisions are handled appropriately.
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And just like you, I’ve been a caregiver.
I share my knowledge and tips to help seniors and families as they navigate the complicated process of senior living options.
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