RADIO TRANSCRIPT
September 28, 2022
Brandi Silver

This is Brandi Silver, FCS agent with the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Burke County Center.  Our program today is about advanced planning for seniors.

Seniors oftentimes find themselves unexpectedly needing additional care as they age. Tough decisions end up being made by a family member so advanced planning is a fantastic gift to give your loved ones that will be facing these decisions as you age.

Schedule time to talk to your family. Discuss any concerns you may have about senior living and what you would like to experience in a best and worst case scenario.   Bring up what your visions are for your later years and help paint a clear picture of your financial situation in order to know what options are available to you. Gather your monthly and annual income, any insurance premiums and other monthly expenses, owned real estate, as well as Veterans Aid & Attendance benefits.

Meet with professional advisors including an elder law attorney to help prepare legal documents and your physician who will be able to provide input on the appropriate level of care you may need.

There are many levels of care available that can help you prepare for the aging process.  A move to a senior living community earlier on gives you the opportunity to continue things you love, but also allows you to spend less time doing the things you don’t love, like landscaping and housekeeping.

Thinking about and discussing these topics can be tough but planning now can ease the stress later on and help your family know they are carrying out your wishes.

This has been Brandi Silver with the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Burke County Center. If you would like more information on aging, contact us 764-9480.