I want to begin preparing for my family's future eldercare needs. Where do I start?

Congratulations!  If you have landed here and are thinking about your family's future eldercare needs, you're well ahead of the game.  Planning now before a crisis strikes allows you to have greater control over your options.  Start the process one step at a time.

1. Start a dialogue with your parent.  Find out if they have made any plans for their future care.  What are their preferences and what are their fears.  This can be as in depth as they feel comfortable with.  You may find them relieved that you have started the 'difficult conversation'. 
   
   
2.  Start recording the information you gather in a binder.  This should include:       insurance information, medical history, emergency contacts, and legal documents.
   
   
3. Set in place advance directives.  The 2 legal documents to consider are the living will and a power of attorney.  Having these documents completed diminishes the stress should their condition change suddenly or over time.
4. 
   Examine health care insurance.  Find out what coverage they have now and what their options are for the future.  Do they have long term care insurance or have they done any estate planning.  Would an eldercare attorney be of assistance at this time?
   

By taking the appropriate steps now you will feel a greater sense of control should a crisis present itself down the road. Your efforts now may be the greatest gift you give to everyone involved.