Caregivers Prep Guide

Chances are you’ll be caring for a parent at some point, and you don’t want to wait until a panic situation arises to make important decisions. Ask your parents these six questions now—no matter what their (or your) age—to avoid a fire drill of red tape and emotion later.

- Leslie Goldman

1 HOW LONG DO YOU SEE YOURSELF LIVING HERE?

Nine out of 10 older adults wish to remain at home throughout the ageing process. But no one knows how they’ll age or what illnesses they might develop. “Always ask, ‘What is your Plan B?’” Come to the conversation armed with information, including the average cost of each situation— including assisted living facilities or home nursing. Some parents may be reluctant to spend their savings on care as they want to leave it to their kids; they feel like it’s part of their legacy. Assure them that using some of it for these services is a gift to you. A few of the options to consider include Antara Senior Living in Dehradun, Epoch Elder Care in Pune and Gurugram, and Asiana in Bhiwadi, Chennai and Lavasa.

2 What’s your health insurance situation?