End of life decisions, lifespan planning, long-term care planning… Call it what you will, nobody really likes thinking about it or talking about it. In this blog, I am going to highlight 4 key aspects of this process using the acronym C.A.R.E.

Communication– Have you discussed your wishes for your later years with your spouse? Parent? Child? Communication is the first key aspect for lifespan planning in my acronym C.A.R.E. Communication is essential when developing your long term care plan. Make sure your loved ones are informed of what you hope your future looks like before a crisis happens and they are forced to make the decision for you.

Assess– In the process of developing your lifespan plan, you’re going to need to take a close look at your financial means and your support system. Do you/ will you have the support and enough money saved to live in the living environment you hope to when the time comes to make a change? This brings us to the A in my acronym, Assess.

Research– Most of us desire to live in our own homes as long as possible but there comes a time when most people are unable to care for themselves anymore. It is helpful to know all of the options available in your area. Research and visit them & if you find one you feel comfortable at, look into making a deposit and/or getting on a wait list.

End-of-life decisions-Death and dying. 2 words that are almost taboo in our society and it happens to every single one of us. Decisions surrounding my E in CARE, end of life wishes, are serious and sensitive. No matter how old you are, an accident could happen and if you don’t have the proper precautions in place your loved ones will have no idea what you wanted. Advance Directives, Living Wills, Trusts, Wills check off all of them!