Family Reunions: The Perfect Time for Aged Care Planning
When your family reunites during the holiday season, it may be a good time to begin planning for future care needs.
Incorporating aged care planning into your family reunion agenda
This year, why not make a resolution to focus on the well-being of your older parents and start a conversation with your family about developing a plan for future care and support? Christmas is a time for family, and the New Year is a time for setting goals and making positive changes. Combining the two can be a great way to ensure that your loved ones are taken care of and that everyone is on the same page about what the future holds.
It’s possible that you may have missed the subtle signs of how your parents are doing due to being busy throughout the year. However, spending time with family during the holiday season may give you a better idea of how they are managing.
If you are reluctant to admit that your parents are getting older and may need assistance, remember that asking for help does not mean you are losing control. In fact, it can be the first step towards gaining more control over your future independence and easing the burden on yourself and other family members.
It might be time for a family meeting
Planning ahead is important, and starting early leads to the best results.
It is important for retirement plans to address the potential for frailty in later stages of retirement and consider involving family members in the aged care planning process to avoid conflicts and ensure that decisions are made with the comfort of all parties in mind.
Christmas gatherings provide a rare opportunity for families to hold a meeting and discuss important topics. For older parents, this is a chance to voice their wishes and for children, it can help clarify responsibilities and reduce uncertainty. Early discussions are recommended for successful outcomes and for parents to maintain control and independence.
If you feel anxious about the idea of holding a family meeting, we can provide guidance and support to make the process easier. Our neutral perspective and expertise can help facilitate a productive and beneficial conversation among parents, children, and other significant family members. The goal is to openly discuss issues, address concerns, and make decisions that benefit the entire family.
Tips for starting a conversation
During the festive season, families can take steps to ensure the well-being of their aging parents. These tips can help:
- Pay attention to signs that your parents may be struggling
- Discuss your observations with other family members
- Have a conversation with your parents about their plans, worries, and living situation
- Begin looking into aged care options (including in-home care) and understand the aged care costs
- Make sure that power of attorney documents and wills are up to date and relevant, and seek legal advice to review and update them if necessary
- If your parents need care now, contact My Aged Care to arrange an assessment.
Make an appointment to discuss options and actions needed to be taken. Call us on 1300 550 940.
Important information: This document has been prepared by Aged Care Financial Advisers, ABN 91 600 073 630 Authorised Representative of Lifespan Financial Planning Ltd AFL 292892, based on our understanding of the relevant legislation at the time of writing. While every care has been taken, Aged Care Financial Advisers makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the contents.
