According to Statistics Canada, there could be as many as 10.9 million seniors in the country by 2036.
If you have family members who are seniors, you know that there is a delicate balance between caring for your loved ones and still honouring their independence. There is also a lot to consider when transitioning that family member from independent life to a care facility.
- Have “The Talk”
It is important to have the difficult conversation about elder care sooner rather than later. If you are able to have the tough conversations now, your loved one will be better able to participate in the process rather than having to make a hasty decision because of health concerns. Be prepared for the conversation to be an emotional one with few resolutions initially. Multiple discussions may be necessary; setting an expectation of achieving one resolution per talk will ensure you keep making progress. - Create a Checklist
Most people cannot think clearly during a health crisis. Creating a checklist and gathering critical information in advance carries great benefits. Find out where important documents are kept and to whom you should speak to obtain these items such as keys for the safety deposit box, essential contacts including Doctors, Lawyers, Advisors, as well as determining what kind of care is preferred. - Delegate Authority
Select a trusted person who will have the authority to make decisions on your loved one’s behalf in situations where they are no longer able to look after matters on their own. Discussions around power of attorney for financial and personal care decisions will ensure that your loved one feels safe and their desires will be properly represented. - Gather the Comfort Items
Have a conversation on what type of items they will need to feel comfortable no matter where they will be located. Consider items such as a journal, favourite music, reading materials, a portable photo album of the family or a family quilt. Creating an environment that feels like home will provide much-needed assurance and increase their general well-being.
Unica Insurance provides options that extend your coverage to include dependents that are living in a long-term care facility.
Our LIVEasy® products offer extensive coverage for your loved one’s personal belongings while kept at a qualifying facility. In addition, the coverage offers protection for damages as a result of unintentional bodily injury or property damage they may have caused. Coverage extends to retirement, residential assisted living, facilities for the mentally challenged, for the elderly, physically challenged and/or physical rehabilitation facilities.
A highlight of this coverage is that it isn’t restricted to parents—it’s for anyone under your legal custody and/or to whom you are financially contributing for their care such as an elderly aunt or uncle.
LIVEasy offers you peace of mind when sudden changes require quick decisions to be made for your loved one when they need you the most.
