SENIOR LIVING Q. At what age should I start thinking about my parents and the "next steps" in their care? A. This is the final installment in a series that we hope has helped you to answer this question. As you go forward please realize that your loved one's medical and General Services personal situation willikelybecome more complex. You will need to face some direct and honest conversations! Encourage your loved ones to write down information about accounts, insurance, assets, passwords, and specific instructions for handling their possessions and household needs Get contad information for agents, attorneys, and others who manage their Chuck Jensen Manager accounts. Store this information in a safe and secure place that is accessible to you. Consider having Power of Attorney papers drawn up as well as a Health Care Directive that defines who has power to make decisions and what those powers are. Keep in mind that these are not inclusive - you need both financial and health care documents. Good planning, clear communication, and the use of counseling are critical components of caring for your aging loved ones. To sum up, the time to start thinking about the next steps in the care of your aging parents is now! For more information on WoodsEdge Senior Living, contact Chuck Jensen, Assistant Administrator, at: 218-333-6289 or chuck.jensen@sanfordhealth. org. Sanford Health Senior Services includes WindSong, Trillium, Neilson Place and Baker Park Housing.