I am hoping that as you review this list, that many of you can check all the boxes as “accomplished.” However, I know from my 25 years of consulting and working in senior living that this is unlikely. We all tend to procrastinate or avoid doing things we know we should do! But it can’t hurt to begin the year by taking an honest look at your plan to age successfully.

While I haven’t included everything in this list (like diet and exercise!) it is a list of the “big ticket items” one needs to have in place to be prepared. And for my younger colleagues reading this, at least four of these five still apply to you!

1. Do I want to stay in my home and age in place? Do I need to do any modifications to make it safer? If moving is under consideration, do I need to research my options and make a plan?
2. Do I have all the critical medical documents I need known as advance directives, such as a living will and healthcare surrogate forms? Does the family and my doctor have copies? Is it current or do I need to modify any of the information? Have I discussed my end of life wishes with my family? Have I reviewed my long-term care insurance policy and know what it covers?
3. Do I have all the legal and financial documents I need, such as a will, trust, power of attorney and more? Every attorney will advise a review at least every 5 years. Have there been any changes such a death of a spouse/partner or a divorce that requires an update? Any concerns about cognitive decline that would change your future plans legally?
4. Do I know how I will pay for long term care if I need it? This includes home care, assisted living or skilled nursing care. All these costs are going up. Now is the time to plan for these costs and talk with your family. Consider Medicaid planning EARLY with an Elder Law attorney who can guide you through this process ahead of a crisis.
5. Do I have a purpose and a passion? What will keep me engaged and connected to my community? Loneliness is listed as one of the top reasons seniors fail to thrive. If you are feeling isolated or alone, find an organization to volunteer with.

The New Year is a great time to review your plan! Developing a plan to age successfully takes thoughtful preparation and time. If you need any help, consider scheduling an appointment with me. My hope is that the coming year brings you health, happiness, and connection to friends and family!

UPCOMING EVENTS: (all are invited!)

January 15 at 6pm:

Join me at the new LYNX bookstore,

601 South Main St.

If you have not visited Gainesville author Lauren Groff’s new bookstore, please come to this event and support your local independent bookstore and support me! Julie Rocha will be interviewing me (her podcast is Aging Gracefully) and there will be lots of time for Q&A. RSVP here: https://thelynxbooks.com/events/1515320250115

FYI: What is Alachua County Doing for Affordable Housing?

Community Interest Program, open to all and free.

 Wed. Jan. 22, 2-4pm,

Alachua County Senior Center,

5701 NW 34th Blvd.

The cost of housing is a critical issue, nationally and for our own county.

Don’t miss this educational program! Find out the latest information about what Alachua County is doing to address this complex problem. Two experts within the Alachua County Department of Community Support Services will present perspectives addressing the issue of affordable housing in our county.

Star Bradbury

Senior Living Strategies

Author “Successfully Navigating Your Parents’ Senior Years”