by Jennifer Tyner, CMC – Aging Life Care Manager | AOS Care Management
We are all constantly reminded of the value and importance of planning for our future, especially when a crisis occurs to someone close to us. If you have not communicated your plans to your family, trusted friends and professional partners in your life, it is wise to take on this task now, no matter your age.
A simple way to get started is to complete a life planning guide. Once you have documented your wishes and shared the location of your important papers, simply review and update the information annually to keep your wishes and information current.
Everyone should think ahead to the financial, medical and family issues that we might face in a crisis and as we age. As an aging life care manager, I use this tool with my clients and remind them that to stay in control, they must share their wishes.
The process of completing a planning guide will become a communication tool for you and your family.
- Where do you keep a copy of your online account passwords to ensure payments will be received on time during a medical emergency?
- What are your end-of-life wishes, and where is your healthcare power of attorney located?
- Who will care of your family pet during a medical crisis?
- Have you purchased a burial plot and pre-planned your funeral?
Finalizing your plans will bring you comfort, knowing that you are conveying helpful information about yourself to your family, trusted friends and professional partners in your life. Remember, the information should be readily accessible in your home, and it is advisable to inform your family numbers of its existence.
Everyone wants to be in control. The best way to stay in control and age well is to plan ahead and communicate your wishes.
Aging Outreach Services has published a Life Planning Guide to help you plan and put your wishes on paper. The guide will become a communication tool for you and your family. Click here to purchase the AOS Life Planning Guide & Doctor Appointment Planner from Amazon and have it mailed directly to your home or click here to download a free copy.
Tyner is an certified aging life care manager with AOS Care Management in Southern Pines, NC. She can be reached at jennifert@aoscaremanagement.com.