What is the best way to plan for the future? For some, it’s about having enough savings; for others, it’s about making the right investment decisions. Nonetheless, a holistic strategy is the best way to prepare for the future.
Getting older is a natural part of life, with varying needs that you may be unable to meet. Fortunately, that’s where advanced care planning comes in. By planning for your care, you can meet all your future healthcare needs and have options to access care.
The Population Reference Bureau estimates that the number of individuals aged 65 and older will reach 82 million by 2050. Consequently, preparing for life post-retirement can give you peace of mind while ensuring your loved ones are aware of your wishes.
Let’s explore how to create a clear and holistic plan.
How to Plan for the Future
The inevitability of the future means we must approach it with an open mind. The best way to create a holistic plan is by going through the following steps:
Assessing Current and Future Needs
Evaluate your current needs and draw up a plan to anticipate the type of care you want. For instance, dementia is one of the most common conditions affecting seniors above the age of 70.
End-of-life planning is also essential when thinking about your healthcare needs. You’ll also need a healthcare power of attorney to go to your spouses, children, or kin.
Assessing your current and future needs also involves planning where to transition to after retirement. While staying at home is a common choice, the environment may not have the necessary amenities and services to meet your needs.
Some of the senior living amenities you can find in Reading, PA include:
- On-site dining
- Holiday celebrations and themed parties
- Multifunction entertainment areas
- Pet-friendly community
Make Legal and Financial Preparations
Review your legal documents and outline your wishes, including advance directives. You should also examine your will and make changes you deem necessary. Alternatively, create a living will that incorporates the needs of both you and your loved one.
Financial preparation is a core part of advanced care planning. You need to create a budget devoted to expenses you incur in the future. Conduct some research on the cost estimates and explore your available options, such as:
- Utilizing personal savings
- Drawing from your retirement or 401K account
- Taking long-term care insurance
Making the right financial plan ensures you can afford the best senior care in Reading, PA. A strong plan also keeps your family less burdened by personal care costs.
Communicate Openly
According to the National Institute on Aging, only one in three Americans have a plan for their future healthcare needs. It’s not easy to talk about the future, especially when considering end-of-life care.
However, openly communicating with family members can help you understand the reality of aging. Further, consulting experts from different fields, such as healthcare providers and lawyers, help you know how to make informed decisions about your future.
Review different communities offering personal care in Reading, PA, to learn what you can expect. Doing so will also help you decide when to join a personal care community and which program fits your needs.
Importance of Advanced Care Planning
Advanced care planning is vital to making informed senior healthcare decisions. Begin by documenting your wishes and communicating with your loved ones about what you need. This action helps save your family members time and prevents disputes with regard to what course of action to follow.
Planning is crucial for the following reasons:
Improved Quality of Life
An advanced plan on what personal care in Reading you’ll receive can significantly improve your quality of life. The plan can outline what amenities and services you desire. It will also outline the necessary medical interventions and your wishes for end-of-life care.
Having a plan in place also preserves your personal beliefs and values. This is because your family members can ensure that all the care you receive aligns with your wishes.
Maintaining Autonomy
Getting older is usually associated with a loss of independence. Seniors who make an advanced plan can retain control over different decisions. The autonomy also benefits your family members, who don’t have to make tough decisions during a crisis or emergency.
Cost Efficiency
According to Statista, the cost of senior living has been on an upward trend since 2019, and the average monthly cost now stands at $3,269. An advanced strategy that incorporates financial planning can help you find ways to meet the cost of senior living.
Deciding where to receive care helps you financially budget for future expenses. Although costs are subject to change, advanced care planning enables you to identify ways to keep the costs low.
When to Start Planning for Senior Living
The best time to start planning for senior living is now. As you age, senior living becomes an option you must explore. So, whether you’re still working or retired, beginning to plan for personal care, can help you financially and psychologically prepare for the transition.
Early planners usually begin assessing senior care living options by age 50. But even at 40, you can start to learn the different residential senior living options available in Reading, PA. Assess your health needs and your family history to understand the type of care you’ll need.
Plan for senior living more vigorously as you approach retirement. This measure will reduce stress and help you transition seamlessly when the time comes. Some of the signs it’s time to join a senior living community in Reading, PA, include:
- Difficulty performing activities of daily living
- Medical diagnosis
- Poor nutrition accompanied by rapid weight changes
- Mobility problems and increased falls
Take Control of the Future with Advanced Care Planning Today
Advanced care planning can help you shape the future you want while relieving pressure on your loved ones. By preparing for senior living, you can transition smoothly into your golden years with peace of mind.
Rittenhouse Village at Muhlenberg has created a holistic environment dedicated to improving your quality of life. From fine dining and a full calendar of events to personalized services and amenities, our commitment to excellence has made us the ideal senior living community in Reading, PA.
Contact us today to learn more about our community.
