This is your Life!

Posted on

Nov 01, 2019

What comes to mind when you think of retirement? Do you picture a view of the ocean or the mountains? A mild climate? Your home town? The comfort of the place you call home? A sense of community & interaction with others?
Everyone has different hopes & desires when it comes to aging & retirement. No matter the goal, a realistic mindset & planning must occur.
Regardless of social & economic status, there are options to age the way you want to. Life does not always go as planned but it is best to be prepared. Being prepared will help to navigate the obstacles of life.
There are a few key questions to ask yourself regarding how you want to age:
1.) Do I want to live in a senior community or age in place?
2.) What are my available resources?
3.) Who do I want to help me with decision making if I am not able to?
There are a few key action items to help prepare for the future:
1.) Write down your wishes.
2.) Formalize your wishes. This can be in the form of advanced directives, MOST form, living will, etc...
3.) Talk with those who will help you through the process & fulfill your plan.
Answering these questions & completing the action steps can place you in a position to age the way you want opposed to aging placing you!
Millions of Americans face difficult decisions during a time of need. The more prepared you can be for the aging process, the better.Northern Colorado is full of many educated professionals & resources for seniors & families navigating the aging process. If aging the way you want is your goal; you must take action & plan. There are many local companies & resources to get in touch with such as:
-Home Care Companies
-Social Workers & Case Managers
-Primary Care Physician
-Area Agency on Aging
-Care Management Professionals
Professionals from these fields & resources will assist with planning your goals before the time of decision arises.

Editors Note: This article was submitted by Greg Kelley. Greg is the Director of Operations & Administrator with Phoenix Home Care & Hospice and may be reached at (970)270-1541 or by email at GKelley@PhoenixHomeHC.com with any questions.

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