By Paul Geisel - Aged Care Specialist

I am sure many of you have heard your elderly loved ones expressing the above thoughts when asked about Aged Care or where they plan living the rest of their lives.

Many adult children have difficulty talking to their elderly parents about their future needs and care.

Whilst it is never too soon…  it can often be too late.

Some common suggestions that I have found worked best with my clients when having these difficult conversations include:  ensuring at all times to be Respectful, and most of all, Patient. It is as difficult for your loved ones to discuss this as it is for you. Try to avoid negative talk, and work together to find a solution. Better still, seek advice from a specialist, an independent party that can facilitate the discussions for all parties involved.

The following is not an exhaustive list but a list of possible suggestions/discussion points to make the conversation with your loved ones, easier.

• I know you do not want your family inconvenienced should you pass and that is why you have so carefully attended to your Estate Planning requirements through your Solicitor in relation to your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney and Advanced Health Directives. It was thoughtful of you to take out a funeral bond to cover expenses.

• As you are keen to remain in the family home for as long as you are able, would you like to explore, with me, some of the options available to you to enable this to happen naturally e.g. Government and Private Providers – Meals on wheels, Home maintenance people etc.

• Should Mum/Dad (as the case may be) pass unexpectedly, would you still wish to remain in the family home? If not, what other alternatives might you consider should you be a sole survivor of a long partnership?

• Would you and Mum like to visit a few alternative lifestyle accommodation options now while you are both physically able? Perhaps you could make a joint decision for both of you now or the other partner should one partner pass away?

• Would you like to understand how you might afford the entry and ongoing costs of an alternative lifestyle accommodation options?

• Could I suggest an independent specialist to assist you and the family understand the options available to both of you now and/or perhaps one of you as the circumstances change?
  We would be happy to ask the specialist to speak with you and the family at your home?

• The family will cover any costs to ensure you are professionally advised in order to make informed decisions.
  We are keen for both Mum and Dad, and the family, to have Peace of Mind and clarity as we move graciously into Care for our loved ones.

Seek advice from your Accredited Aged Care specialist who will work with you to ensure a peaceful transition. To find out more, or see how the above points may relate to your situation, contact Paul Geisel on paulg@financialadvicematters.com.au or 3721 4413.