When do we start the aged care conversation?

When should the discussion about aged care commence? At what age should you start thinking about your aged care needs? The answer is simple, any age is the right time. Whether you find yourself in the early stages of retirement or well into this life phase, initiating conversations about aged care is important.

Starting the conversation while your loved ones are still in good health is a smart approach. Focus discussions on what support may prove beneficial or alleviate potential challenges in the future. While raising the subject may introduce a level of awkwardness, it provides your loved one with an opportunity to consider their priorities and provide you with instructions. These instructions provide guidance if you need to make choices on their behalf in the future.

Five things to consider

1. Addressing financial, family, and personal aspects early on can open up a range of options and help reduce stress when navigating aged care decisions.
2. Beyond residential aged care, consider alternatives like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Home Care Packages. These options offer varying support levels, allowing individuals to remain in their homes while maintaining independence.
3. Explore short-term respite options or alternatives to support family and friends in need of a break from the care and support they provide, allowing them focus on their personal wellbeing.
4. Review the enduring power of attorney, enduring guardianship, and will to ensure they are appropriate and valid. This will minimise confusion and delays, along with any unexpected outcomes when they are required.
5. Our Aged Care Specialist Advisers can provide more information around the various care options and support available. They will also help to clarify the various financial considerations, helping you to understand any immediate and long-term financial outcomes.

Seeking assistance

Making an informed decision about aged care is important. Incorrect decisions can have far-reaching consequences for the entire family, potentially leading to conflicts. To learn more about how we assist families in making informed choices at every stage of their aged care journey and achieve their preferred outcomes during emotional and stressful times, please contact our team.

Download our guide to aged care

Our exclusive booklet illustrates examples where specialist financial advice may assist in significantly improving financial outcomes. Complete the form below and your copy will be emailed to you.