Avoid crisis when it comes to your parents:

Certified Senior Advisor Explained

Picture a scenario where your cherished family members or close friends find themselves in a critical situation, requiring crucial healthcare decisions. Now, imagine that they are unable to make these decisions, and, to make matters more complex, you lack the legal authority to act on their behalf. This distressing situation is one that countless individuals face, emphasizing the need for guidance and support during challenging times.

In this extensive guide, we embark on a journey to shed light on the pivotal role of a certified senior advisor. We aim to delve deep into understanding what certified senior advisors do, when it is most appropriate to seek their invaluable assistance, and the lasting advantages of engaging their services. Additionally, we will explore the collaborative synergy that exists between senior real estate specialists and other professionals who specialize in senior care.

At the core of this exploration is the recognition that aging is a natural part of life, and as our loved ones grow older, they may encounter health-related challenges, financial complexities, and housing considerations that require careful attention. These are not matters to be taken lightly, and navigating them alone can be overwhelming.

Let's dive right in...

In this episode, we focus on the following topics:

1. What is a certified Senior Advisor and when to consult one.

- A Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) specializes in providing assistance and guidance to seniors and their families, navigating complex challenges such as healthcare, finances, housing, and legal issues. Anytime after about 50, you want to start thinking for yourself.

2. What is most critical to have in place to avoid a crisis?

- Make sure that you've got your power of attorney, the Advanced Health Care Directive and also your will and a trust.

3. Who helps write a healthcare directive? -

- You can get support in completing that with an attorney, or you can get advice online to complete that on your own.

4. What are some of the challenges to expect nowadays?

- People not planning ahead effectively can create difficulties in caring for oneself or others, leading to stress and uncertainty. Proper planning and working with trusted providers can better prepare individuals for potential challenges that may arise as they age.

5. What are some of the housing options that active adults have available? -

- 90% of people want to stay in their own home and want to age in place and about 45% are able to do so easily. Every type of housing options has its' own pros and cons so be sure to always reach out to learn what's best suited for your needs.

6. How do people afford the care they need as they age?

- To afford the increasing cost of care as needs go up, it's important to prioritize self-care. In San Diego County, in-home care costs $35/hour, making assisted living a more cost-effective option after around 8 hours of care per day.

7. My family lives across the country. Who can help care for them?

- I have partners located in various areas across the US, so please don't hesitate to reach out to me for assistance in caring for you or your senior family members

8. How do individuals afford to go to the next step; independent living, assisted living, or nursing care?

- Assisted living in San Diego County costs around $5,500 per person per month, with higher care needs increasing the cost. Veterans and their spouses may be eligible for aid and attendance benefits, which can also be used for in-home care. Another option for veterans is the homemaker program for in-home care.

9. How can people get in touch and get some more information about what Aging Well Partners can do for them?

- Aging Well Partners is a platform we created after realizing that supporting older adults requires a network of trusted providers accessible in one place. It encourages our partners to work closely together in support of older adults.

I hope that this guide has been informative and engaging, and that you feel empowered to take the necessary steps to support your senior loved ones. Remember, planning and preparation are key, and it's never too early to start. By working with a CSA and other senior professionals, you can ensure that your loved ones receive the best possible care and attention, helping them to thrive throughout their golden years.