Contents
- Why You Need to Make Plans for Future Health Events
- What Plan Your Lifespan Helps With
- When is the Right Time to Make Plans?
- Get Connected to Community-based Services and Supports
Why You Need to Make Plans for Future Health Events
The United States is getting older. So are you and so is your family.
In 2020, about one in six people in the United States were age 65 and over, and this number continues to rise. As we age, the likelihood of experiencing health events such as hospitalizations, falls, and memory loss increases. Preparing for these future events can help reduce stress, ensure better care, and allow you to maintain control over your health and well-being.
Making plans for future health events isn’t just about anticipating illness – it’s about setting yourself up for a quality life, no matter your age. By making thoughtful decisions today, you can navigate the future with more confidence and peace of mind.
What Plan Your Lifespan Helps With
1. Hospitalizations
Unexpected hospital visits can disrupt your life, but if you have a plan in place, you can make informed decisions quickly. Whether it’s knowing which hospitals are covered under your insurance or having a healthcare proxy who knows your wishes, planning for hospitalization can alleviate stress and ensure you get the right care when you need it most.
2. Fall Prevention
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults, and their consequences can be devastating. A fall prevention plan includes things like making your home safer, improving your physical strength and balance, and knowing what steps to take if a fall occurs. Being proactive in this area can help you remain independent and safe as you age.
3. Memory Loss
As we age, memory loss can become a concern. Whether it’s mild forgetfulness or the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, having a plan for cognitive health can make a significant difference. This includes regular mental exercises, early detection screenings, and open communication with healthcare professionals. Early planning can also involve decisions about long-term care or assisted living if necessary.
Communicating Your Plans
Planning ahead is only effective if you communicate those plans with others. Talk to your loved ones about your wishes for future healthcare and ensure they understand your preferences. Whether it’s your healthcare proxy, family members, or close friends, having a conversation about what you want in the event of a health crisis will ensure they are prepared to act on your behalf. Document your plans, and make sure they are accessible to those who may need them.
A key part of communication is discussing your advanced care directives, including whether or not you want life-saving interventions, your preferences for palliative or hospice care, and what treatments you want or do not want.
How to Pay for Your Plans
One of the most important parts of planning for future health events is understanding the financial implications. Many health-related events, especially hospitalizations or long-term care, can be expensive.
Start by reviewing your current insurance policies and making sure they meet your future needs. Consider long-term care insurance to cover assisted living or nursing home care. Additionally, setting up a Health Savings Account (HSA) or contributing to retirement funds can provide a financial cushion for healthcare expenses.
If you are on Medicare, research additional coverage options such as Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans to ensure you have the best coverage for potential future health events. Consulting with a financial planner who specializes in healthcare can also help you make the best financial decisions for your future.
When is the Right Time to Make Plans?
It’s never too early to start thinking about your future healthcare needs, but the earlier you start planning, the better. Ideally, you should begin planning for future health events in your 40s or 50s when you can still take proactive steps to maintain your health. However, if you’re already in your 60s or beyond, it’s still not too late to begin making thoughtful plans.
The key is to start as soon as possible – don’t wait until a health crisis arises to think about what you would want. By creating a plan ahead of time, you give yourself the power to make decisions on your terms.
Get Connected to Community-based Services and Supports
You don’t have to go through this process alone. Many community-based services and supports are available to help you plan for future health events. From local senior centers and healthcare organizations to support groups and government programs, there are many resources to guide you.
For example, local Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) often provide services such as meal delivery, transportation, and home modifications. These services can enhance your quality of life as you age and help you stay independent for as long as possible.
Additionally, support groups for specific health conditions or life stages can provide valuable insight and emotional support. Connecting with these services early can ensure that you have a network of support when you need it.
Secure Your Future Health Today
Planning for future health events is a key step in taking control of your aging process. By planning for hospitalizations, falls, memory loss, and other potential health challenges, you ensure that you are prepared to face whatever the future may bring with confidence.
Communicating your plans with loved ones, understanding how to finance your healthcare needs, and connecting with community resources will give you the peace of mind you deserve. Remember, it’s never too soon to start planning for your future health, and the earlier you begin, the more empowered you’ll feel to navigate life’s changes.