The Planning Tool You Have Been Waiting For!
Published February 21, 2024
By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA®, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC & Navigating Solo Network
As an FYI: The complimentary “tool” is the Round TUIT graphic above!
“What is your plan?” This question taps into many emotions instantly and often “excitement” is not one of them unless you are planning a long awaited vacation.
However, crafting a well developed plan as one ages is imperative. This plan should include concerns and needs related to health management, emotional and social support, estate and advance care planning, housing, transportation, safety, finance, legal needs, lifelong learning, and living a dynamic life.
For many people planning is overwhelming and scary and it often leads to procrastination. Many will begin to work on planning when they get “around to it” and this can create further complications.
Planning is most effective when it is done proactively.
So, if you are reading this and you were just waiting until you got “around to it,” that day has arrived. We are proud to provide you with a complimentary Round TUIT (download your Round TUIT graphic above). This is THE planning tool you have been waiting for. No assembly required!
Sure, a Round TUIT graphic might be a lighthearted approach to planning! But, now that you have this “tool,” let’s get started!
Solo agers (and really everyone) need to consider the support and resources they currently have in place and will need to have in place to effectively navigate the wide variety of needs as an aging adult.
Here are questions to think about:
Health Management: Who helps you navigate your" healthcare: prepare for and attend appointments, talk through medical information and treatment options, and review medical bills? What is your plan as your needs change?
Emotional and Social Support: Is your support network age diverse? Who is a part of it? Are you a part of any groups and/or connected to community organizations? Who do you connect with on a regular basis? What opportunities are there to enhance what you have in place now?
Advance Care Plans: Are your advance care plans in place? Have you considered the type of care you want and do not want? Are your plans written down? With whom have you discussed them? Who is serving as your agent/proxy? How did you choose who will advocate for you in the event you cannot advocate for yourself? Have you revisited your plan recently?
Housing: What is the best living situation for you? Do you want to stay in your current home, move once, or consider a move more than once? If you are considering staying where you live now, will it need updates or modifications as you age? What type of home & community do you want to live in? Are you interested in exploring Independent and Assisted Living communities, CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) or are you open to exploring tiny house community living, co or shared housing? What resources do you want available to you if you make in a change in where you live?
Transportation: If you are no longer able to drive, do you want/have access to public transportation and/or affordable rideshare services? Are there area community organizations that can provide assistance? Who helps you now? What might you need help with in the future?
Safety: Do you have a friend you check in with regularly regarding your well being? Will you be able to get help in an emergency? Who would you call/reach out to at 3 am?
Financial Concerns: What is included in your plan for making financial decisions and money management? Who will assist you if you need assistance? Have you revisited your plan recently?
Legal Concerns and Estate Plan: Are your legal affairs in order? Do you have an Estate Plan? Did you know you can designate organizations as well as individuals as beneficiaries? Do you have a Financial power of attorney (sometimes call a durable power of attorney) in place? Have you revisited your plan recently?
Living a Dynamic Life: Are you committed to lifelong learning? Do you feel you are well equipped to continue to cope with changes that come with aging? What are your goals? What do you find meaningful? What matters to you?
How to “use” your Round TUIT graphic: (just for fun!)
Your new Round TUIT requires no assembly. It is ready to use instantly once you download the graphic! (wink,wink!)
While exploring the questions above, your Round TUIT can help you stay on track. Use it often and do not misplace it. Keep it somewhere easily within reach!
Storage Idea: Add the Round TUIT graphic to the photo gallery on your phone so you will always have it with you.
Remember, there is no right or wrong way to compile your plan. Planning is complex, timing consuming, and draining. It can trigger our “inner soundtrack” about what “we” have and what “we” don’t. Be patient with yourself.
Set small, realistic goals. Talk to others about what you are doing. Seek out accountability buddies and speak with or meet with them regularly!
Planning is a dynamic process and one that never ends. Your ROUND Tuit is designed in a circle and also has no beginning or end! It is the perfect companion for the planning process!
Crafting a solo aging plan takes time, thought, introspection, hard work, and guidance. It is a lifelong process that requires putting foundational elements in place and revisiting them annually and when major life events (loss, move, retirement, medical crisis) occur.
Everyone needs a plan. Everyone should consider that they will be navigating aging on their own at some point. Giving intentional thought to one’s needs is crucial for having the best possible outcome.
Putting plans in place provides peace of mind and a map to guide you along life’s paths. I hope your Round TUIT graphic can help!
Solo Aging Resources:
Upcoming Events including SAVvy Day: Solo Aging Visibility Day, May 15, 2024
The Navigating Solo Network is an online national network and clearinghouse featuring resources specifically for Solo Agers!
Our site features a resource library, calendar of events, exclusive resources for members, and more! Join our mailing list below!
Are you interested in working with a solo aging educator and advocate? Our founder Ailene Gerhardt is available to assist! Email her!