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Critter Corner: When Should I Plan for Long-Term Care?

Dear Angel,

I read somewhere that I should start planning for long-term care now. I am only 40. That seems young. Is this correct and why?

Thanks!

Jus Fortee

Dear Jus,

What you read is correct. Advisors recommend that clients start planning for long-term care years before they think they will need it. In fact, according to CNBC, the most robust planning sessions should occur between ages 40 and 50.

· Starting early will give you more time to assess what the options are in your home city and state, because location can greatly limit what services are available;

· An early start will also help you decide whether to buy traditional long-term care insurance or the often-better option of hybrid insurance, which is discussed in detail in today’s article;

· Having a long-term care plan is the best way to ensure that the late years of your life are as smooth as possible, according to financial advisors and aging life care experts;

· Waiting too long can lead to scrambling in a time of crisis.

We plan for weddings and we plan for graduations, and we do it very thoughtfully. But this is our life, and our years ahead. Similar to planning for retirement, you have to plan for your health and well-being.

Communicate with family

Beyond having a plan, it is important to communicate your wishes for long-term care with your family, financial advisors, legal / financial advisors such as Evan Farr, and aging life care professionals. Few advisors report that their clients are communicating with their families about their wishes for long-term care.

Having your family on the same page will alleviate stress and pressure and allow everyone to enjoy the golden years of your life more. A family meeting can move the topic of long-term care to a more focused discussion that can lead to a plan. Please see our web page on the long-term care conversation for a checklist for planning your family meeting.

Hope this is helpful,

Angel

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About Renee Eder

Renee Eder is the Director of Public Relations for the Farr Law Firm, and gives the voice to the Critters of Critter Corner. Renee’s poodle, Penny, is an official comfort dog who she and her children bring to visit with seniors who are in the early stages of dementia at a local senior home once a month.

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