Question:  

What services and resources help maintain independence and quality of life as we age? We’re getting closer to this stage of life and it’s time to know what exists and formulate a plan.

Answer: 

Thanks to medical advancements and technology, Americans can expect to live about 22 years in retirement. Making the most of these years is important. Identifying resources and assembling your team before the need arises is prudent planning. In fact, there are specialists you didn’t even know existed that you may need. Here’s a list to get you started along with links to additional information. 

1. Healthcare advocates help patients and families navigate public and private medical resources such as Medicare or individual insurance and evaluate in-home and long-term care options. Families separated by distance may take comfort in knowing their loved one is guarded by a healthcare advocate committed to ideal outcomes. Resources: Department of Health and Human Services' Elder Care, AARP

2. Medical specialists such as Certified Dementia Practitioners are physicians specializing in memory care and medication management. They may even help mitigate side effects that could worsen dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms. Some health professionals provide in-home care like services you’d find in a hospital or care facility. Start your search by looking for a caring, compassionate professionals who also have experience with situations like yours. Verify that their training meets your state Department of Health’s guidelines.

3. Elder law attorneys focus on areas other than traditional legal services such as powers of attorney, medical privacy release forms, living will, legacy documents and reviewing estate plans and update beneficiary designations. Specialists in this area may be helpful when resolving Social Security issues, fighting age discrimination, establishing conservatorship, and litigating elder abuse cases. Resources:  American Association of Trusts, Estates, and Elder Law Attorneys

4. Transportation experts

Driving specialists or driver rehabilitation specialists with backgrounds in occupational therapy can recommend mobility equipment that may keep you or a loved one safely on the road for longer. Look for experience, clear pricing, and convenient locations. Experts may have formal designations like Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist.

Resources: National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association, Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists directory

5. Senior move managers

Moving can be overwhelming, especially for seniors making a lifestyle change. Sorting through a lifetime of memories and possessions takes time and can be difficult emotionally. That’s where senior move managers help declutter, organize, and prioritize what stays and what goes. They can also arrange to sell or donate unwanted items, supervise movers, and set up a new home. Resources: National Association of Senior Move Managers

6. Care managers connect families with services for healthcare, housing, and social activities. They develop and maintain a care plan that evolves as needs change. Family caregivers with good intentions may believe they can perform these services, but experienced care managers often find appropriate and cost-effective solutions more efficiently than most of us could on our own, saving money and reducing stress. Resources: National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers

7. Certified aging in place experts (CAPS) use universal design ideas to modify and build safer living spaces for those who want to live independently. Those with the CAPS designation are certified as specialists by the National Association of Home Builders. Resources: National Association of Home Builders, The National Aging in Place Council

8. Professional senior fiduciaries provide critical assessments and planning for seniors and their families facing medical, psychological, housing, social, legal and/or financial obstacles. They may be tasked with managing financial affairs or coordinating day-to-day activities for those who can no longer do so for themselves.

9. Veterans services officers help navigate the benefits and integrated health services offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for veterans and their families. They will locate a local VA medical hospital or outpatient facility; apply for federal benefits and employment assistance; and access specialized programs designed for military members. Widows and widowers also may need help applying for burial and survivors’ benefits.

10. Financial professionals can work with your estate attorney and CPA or accountant to coordinate financial, tax and estate plans together while working with other specialists to help you or a loved one live a fulfilling life throughout retirement. Bringing together health and wealth solutions may alleviate some of the burden that could be on your shoulders. Ask for help. 

Understanding your options and having a contingency plan for “just in case” ensures you will be well taken care of at a time when you may need it most. Stay focused and plan accordingly.

Sources: Barron’s; National Care Planning Council; Transamerica; MIT AgeLab