

The new year is a time for reflection and planning, and, for older adults, it’s an opportunity to focus on personal goals and practical preparations to enhance peace of mind and quality of life. Resolutions around health, relationships, and personal growth are important, but addressing key areas like advance care planning, family conversations, and long-term care planning can be transformative for both individuals and their loved ones.
Advance Care Planning: Taking Control of Your Health Decisions
Advance care planning ensures your healthcare preferences are known and respected, even if you’re unable to communicate them yourself. This can provide significant comfort to you and your family.
Steps to Take:
- Complete or Update Documents: Review your Advance Directive, Living Will, and Healthcare Proxy to ensure they reflect your current wishes. As an HCG Secure Policyholder, take advantage of your available discounts for these important services – HCG Legacy Policyholders can access Everest, while GTL Life Select and Home Care Secure Policyholders should take advantage of their available Trust & Will discount.
- Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider: Share your plans with your doctor and make sure they’re documented properly in your medical records.
- Consider a POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment): If you have serious health conditions, talk to your doctor about creating a Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form, which provides detailed instructions for emergency situations.
Family Conversations: Building Bridges and Reducing Uncertainty
The new year is a wonderful time to strengthen family ties by engaging in meaningful conversations about the future. Open communication can help ease any uncertainty your loved ones may feel, and ensure your wishes are honored.
Topics to Cover:
- Share Your Plans: Discuss your advance care planning documents and explain your healthcare preferences.
- Talk About Finances: Be transparent about financial planning for long-term care, estate distribution, and any other matters that may affect your family.
- Express Your Values: Let your family know what matters most to you – whether it’s staying in your home, preserving family traditions, or prioritizing comfort over aggressive medical treatments. Talking to loved ones early will help ensure your wishes are honored later in life.
Long-Term Care Planning: Preparing for the Future
As we age, our care needs may evolve, making long-term care planning a crucial step in creating a secure future. Taking proactive steps can reduce stress and uncertainty for you and your family.
Key Areas to Address:
- Explore Your Options: Research in-home care, assisted living, and skilled nursing facilities to understand what services align with your preferences and budget.
- Review Insurance: Check whether you have long-term care insurance or other coverage options, and consider purchasing a policy, if appropriate. Explore affordable options from HCG Secure, such as Life Select.
- Build a Support Network: Identify trusted family members or friends who can help you navigate care decisions and caregiving when the time comes.
By focusing on advance care planning, family conversations, and long-term care planning, you will empower yourself and your loved ones to face the future with confidence. As you set your goals for the year ahead, remember small steps in these areas can make a lasting difference. This New Year, commit to not only living well, but also planning thoughtfully for the years to come.