These days, our extended life span creates a lot of challenges when it comes to managing the financial, physical, medical, and emotional reality of aging in America. We recently asked those who are facing retirement, or beginning to struggle with the challenges of aging, what their top concerns were. Here is what they said:
- I want to stay in my home as long as possible.
- I’m concerned about navigating the long-term care system and finding good care.
- I’m worried about not being able to drive anymore and being isolated and lonely.
- How do I maintain my independence for as long as possible?
- I’m concerned about how to find quality care I can afford.
- I’m worried about health issues and paying for healthcare.
- I want to preserve my options as I age — financial, medical and quality of life.
- I’m worried about finding good assisted living or nursing homes when the time comes.
- What will I do if my family isn’t nearby and I need them? My kids live in New Jersey and Arizona.
We know there are thousands of families struggling with these issues on a daily basis in Central Illinois, and it’s why we’ve developed a solution. When Attorney David Edwards started his own law firm in 2008, he knew he wanted a firm solely dedicated to effective estate planning and the tremendous peace of mind it can bring to families. What he didn’t know was that his journey would lead to helping families achieve peace of mind through more than just legal planning. As we helped more and more families navigate the challenges of aging, find ways to pay for good nursing care for loved ones, and helped Veterans obtain benefits to pay for in-home care as they aged, it became apparent that nearly every family struggles with this time of life. We think it’s the most stressful time of the lifespan!
What is an Elder Care Advisor?
As a result, we’ve formed an interdisciplinary team that works together to identify current and potential care needs, locate appropriate care, preserve family wealth to the greatest extent possible, and support the family during this stressful time. As a part of that interdisciplinary team, the Elder Care Advisors serve as guide, encourager, counselor, resource gatherer, and advocate during the journey. Our Elder Care Advisors include a nurse, physical therapist, social worker, EMT, etc. Each one has unique experiences that equip them to support families and create personalized plans that confront the challenges those families face.
What is a Life Care Plan?
A Life Care Plan defines, organizes, prioritizes, and mobilizes every aspect of an elder’s care. The goal of Life Care Planning is to promote and maintain the health, safety, well-being, and quality of life for those who are struggling with the challenges of aging. Every Life Care Plan is designed to do three things:
Preserve Quality of Life
Make sure the elder loved one gets appropriate care (whether at home or in a residential facility) in order to maintain the quality of life that he or she desires.
Pay for Care
Find solutions to help pay for long-term care and guide families through the issues created by the high cost of care.
Offer Peace of Mind
Offer peace of mind that results when the right choices are made to ensure loved ones are safe and getting the right care while preserving family resources.
Read more about WHO needs a Life Care Plan here.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the challenges or expense of aging, Edwards Group can help! Give us a call at 217-726-9200 to schedule a meeting or a phone consultation with an Elder Care Advisor. You don’t have to struggle on this journey alone. We walk this path with you. Help and support are available. Give us a call today!