Quick Takeaways (TL;DR)
- Start caregiving conversations early: Talk with loved ones about their wishes for aging, long-term care, and end-of-life scenarios well before decisions are urgent.
- Key planning milestones: At 50, focus on financial and legal prep; in your 60s, explore long-term living options; by 70, revisit late-life and end-of-life wishes.
- Edwards Group can help: Leverage our blog, free Planning to Age workshop, and Elder Care advisors for practical support on aging and caregiving.
Table of Contents
- Why Early Conversations About Caregiving Matter
- Key Stages of Caregiving
- Real Stories: Learning Together
- Resources & FAQs
- Get Help or Learn More
Why Early Conversations About Caregiving Matter
At Edwards Group, our clients often feel like family—many have been with us for years, sharing knowledge both ways. Recently, one client sent an article to firm founder David Edwards that perfectly outlined the stages of caregiving. We’re passing those lessons on to you because starting these essential conversations early makes all the difference.
It’s the same reason we created our Planning to Age workshop – to give families a simple, structured way to talk about aging, care needs, and next steps before a health crisis hits.
Key Stages of Caregiving
Caregiving By Age 50
Begin laying the groundwork with honest discussions and advanced planning. Start by having an honest conversation. How do your loved ones picture their later years? (See our guide to starting “the conversation.”)
Some things to think about:
- What are your financial options? Find out about VA benefits, Medicaid eligibility, existing insurance, and expected care costs (Medicare.gov Long-Term Care).
- Do you have legal documents? Ensure wills, living wills, and healthcare directives are up-to-date.
- What’s your plan for long-term care? Explore insurance options and understand what’s not covered by Medicare (NIH: Long-Term Care).
- Do you have support? Identify community resources or senior centers that can help, and explore potential housing alternatives.
Caregiving By Age 60
Revisit the plan and take practical steps as your loved ones’ needs evolve.
- Where and how do your loved ones want to live? Do they want to downsize, age in place, or use assisted living?
- Discuss potential relocation or modifications for safety and independence.
If these conversations feel overwhelming or you’re not sure what questions to ask next, you’re not alone. Our Planning to Age workshop walks families through these same issues – housing choices, paying for care, and essential documents – so you can move from vague worries to a concrete next step.
Caregiving By Age 70
Have open, compassionate conversations about medical options.
- Define what a “good” death means to your loved ones.
- Discuss their preferences for place of care, end-of-life interventions, and life-support.
- Document and share their choices with anyone who might need to know.
Real Stories: Learning Together
One of our favorite things about Edwards Group clients is how much we learn from you.
A few years ago, we heard from a client who is a member of our Dynasty program, which regularly reviews our clients’ estate plans to make sure they stay up-to-date through all stages of life.
He told us that he and his loved ones have made changes to his estate plan every year since he started his Dynasty membership. He recognizes that life’s circumstances change, so revisions to his estate plan will always need to be made. He spoke about how he feels his life affairs are more organized and ready for whatever the future brings.
You’re not alone in facing these milestones, or these challenges. Our Elder Care Advisors and long-time clients frequently share insights, from selecting the right insurance to navigating tough end-of-life questions.
Resources & FAQs
Helpful Internal Reads:
- The 5 Stages of Life Care Planning — Which Stage Are You or Your Loved One In?
- Helping People Age Well: Elder Care Advisors
- 3 Ways to Pay for a Nursing Home
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Medicare usually doesn’t cover long-term care; Medicaid can, but has strict eligibility criteria. Read more at Medicaid.gov.
A: The earlier, the better! Ideally, in your 50s or once a loved one is facing retirement or health changes.
A: A living will, healthcare power of attorney, and up-to-date estate planning documents are a good place to start.
A: Options include private pay, long-term care insurance, qualifying for Medicaid, and Veterans’ benefits.
A: It means staying in your own home as you age, often with support or modifications for accessibility and safety.
A: We offer workshops (including our Planning to Age workshop), personalized plans, and ongoing support—connect with an Elder Care advisor to learn more.
Get Help or Learn More
Take the next step in your caregiving planning journey:
- Register for our Planning to Age workshop to learn practical steps before a health crisis hits.
- Check out our downloadable resources.
- Sign up for our email newsletter to receive caregiving and planning tips.
- Call to connect with an Elder Care Advisor for personalized guidance.