I received a frantic call yesterday from a lovely 85 year young lady who was in desperate need of advice. She had been living in her home for that last 40 years. When she had moved in, her knees were working well and her eye sight was 20/20. She drove at night and had the home in tip-top shape. As the years went on her husband passed away and she was the captain in charge of the ship. She took over duties such as paying the bills and making sure the maintenance of the home was up to the moment, as they had always took pride in the condition both structurally and mechanically.

Over the last 10 years her body started to experience difficulties in her ability to navigate the stairs as her knees began to show signs of arthritis. She became less confident when driving at night. She became more anxious about security, as many of her trusted neighbors had moved on. What hurt the most is that many of her friends had (more…)

So many folks today are living in that uncomfortable position on the fence not sure exactly whether they should stay in their current home or move into a senior community, an apartment, or a condominium. Living day to day with uncertainty can take away from the freedom and independence one should enjoy in retirement years.

Taking a realistic look at your current environment is the first step. It is vitally important to be truly honest with yourself when assessing your current needs for comfort and security. One should not only look at your current situation, but try to project 5-10 years ahead, taking into account one’s age and future needs. The goal is to avoid a crisis situation where a move is made during a traumatic time in your life. Too many folks wait until a change in health occurs or a loss of spouse. Decisions are then made in haste, and too often by children or relatives on behalf of the senior. When I ask my senior participants at seminars, would you want your children deciding where and how you will live, almost 100% shutter at the thought! It is not fair to the senior or to their children.

Therefore, early planning and (more…)