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While no one wants to think about going it alone as they age, you should be prepared in case you find yourself in that situation. Researchers estimate about 22 percent of Americans are at high risk of aging without a family member or caretaker looking after their needs.
Ask yourself these four questions to make sure you’re prepared:
1. Am I financially prepared? Start saving now for things like medical expenses, home repair and housework. You may want to consider long-term care insurance. This can help you pay for medical equipment, assisted living and aides.
2. Who will be my support system? Surround yourself with people you can rely on, like relatives, friends and neighbors. These are people who will act as pillars of support for you, especially in difficult times.
3. Where do I want to live long-term? You may want to stay in your home, but can you live there alone long-term? Think about whether you want to live near people your age, how you want to get around and if you’d like to be close to social opportunities.
4. Are my health care wishes known? Advance directives, such as a health care proxy, make sure that your health care wishes are known to others. Think about what you want and write it down—you want to be very clear. Pick someone you trust to be your health care agent. He or she can then make medical decisions on your behalf if you lose the ability to do so.
Complete a health care proxy today!
As a way to help encourage Americans to make plans in advance of any health crises that may occur in the future, National Healthcare Decisions Day is held every April 16. More than 90 percent of Americans say talking with their loved ones about end-of-life care is important, but only 32 percent have had such a conversation. Therefore, now is the perfect time to complete a health care proxy form if you have yet to do so. You can download this form by visiting the Independent Health website.
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