My Grandfather lived with us most of my life.

He was self sufficient and healthy until just before he passed and  a great addition to our daily family dynamic. Not all families are so lucky when a parent moves in. Generally it is because they can no longer take care of themselves. Here are a few tips for taking care of Mom & Dad:

Know what their needs are. By this I mean, prior to them moving in with you have you been seeing stacks of mail go unopened? Is there sufficient food in the fridge? Are they steady on their feet?

No one wants to lose their independence so pay attention to their frailties. Are they keeping track of money? How are they behind the wheel?

Do they need to move in or do they just need some light help? Many organizations have community care teams that will drive people to Dr. appointments and daily tasks. The roles may be reversing between you as the child and them as the parents, love and patience will make for an easier transition.

Life’s cycle of Events

Over the course of this week I learned that the Father of one of my oldest friends had passed (a blessing), another friend was diagnosed with cancer, and my niece has gotten engaged. The circle of life spins so quickly at times but we can try to prepare.

My friend’s Father had Long Term Care Insurance. This coverage was purchased many years ago and they had discussed the necessity of this coverage, erred on the side of caution and have been thankful they made this decision. There are many different types of Long Term Care Insurance and every client has different needs. Please consider adding this but only after leaning all that you can about the different options.

My friend with the cancer is self employed and health insurance for those of us who are self employed is expensive. Every year he has reviewed all of the health care changes and health insurance options. This is a very confusing type of insurance to buy, but it is one of the most necessary. Thank G-d my friend has the protection to get the care he needs.

My soon-to-be new Nephew spent a lot of time looking at rings and purchase options. He knew what he wanted to get for my niece yet was completely on his own for this very special purchase. He educated himself on the ring for quality of diamond and gold then educated himself on paying for it. Would he pay cash or finance? If he did a combination of both, were the terms of finance acceptable? I can’t tell you which path he took but he is a smart boy and I know he made the right choice for their future.

Life cycle events are more often joyous vs. sad. We can only do so much to prepare. Prepare we must