Our Clearwater Estate Planning Attorney Shares Tips For Aging In Place

Clearwater has a large, diverse older adult population. People over the age of 55 keep fit and active in the community, making important contributions well into their 80s and 90s. Aging in place is a common goal and provides the freedom to live the lifestyle you want  Our Clearwater elder law attorney offers tips for how to achieve it safely.

Priorities For Aging In Place In Clearwater

According to U.S. Census Bureau figures, nearly a third of Clearwater’s population is over the age of 55. Issues related to aging are a concern among these residents, particularly when it comes to maintaining their freedom and aging in place.

It is never too early to begin thinking about your future. This is particularly true if you wish to remain in your own residence rather than in a nursing home or other long-term facilities. Unfortunately, as you get older, natural declines that go along with the aging process can make performing certain types of household tasks difficult, while an increase in chronic health conditions and illnesses can create serious challenges in mobility.

In order to remain in your home as you continue to age over the years, it is important to establish your priorities. These should include:

• Having an appropriately sized home, one that is easy to manage and navigate in;
• Being close to friends, family, or other support systems;
• Having easy access to medical providers, including any out-patient facilities, and staying on top of all chronic health conditions;
• Accessing your safety at home, in public places, and behind the wheel to prevent accidental injuries from happening.

Estate Planning Documents in Clearwater For Aging In Place

You might get some pushback from concerned friends or family about whether you are able to age in place. In addition to having clear priorities that help protect your health and safety, it is also important to have certain types of legal documents in place. These include:

• Advance directives, which dictate your wishes regarding medical care in the event injuries or illness prevent you from communicating them yourself;
• Power of attorney, which designates someone you trust to manage your personal affairs in the event you are incapacitated;
• A Medicaid trust, which can provide access to important community services you may need and can help offset long-term care costs in the event it is required;
• A will, one of the most basic but important estate planning documents, which names your personal representative, details all property and assets, designates beneficiaries, and determines how property is divided between them.

These documents help to ensure your affairs are in order and protect your rights to aging in place.

Discuss Your Options With Our Clearwater Elder Law Attorney

With over 44 years of experience representing older adults in our community, William Rambaum provides caring support and the trusted legal guidance needed when making plans to age in place. To discuss your options, call or contact our office and request a consultation with our Clearwater elder law attorney today.

Source:

data.census.gov/profile/Clearwater_city,_Florida?g=160XX00US1212875