SENIOR LIVING Q. At what age should I start thinking about my parents and the "next steps" in their care? A. Last time we started the discussion about when to start the process of "what is nex" in relation to care for aging parents. Here are some more thoughts that hopefully will help you along. If you feel you will be facing a caregiving situation, ask yourself these questions: General Services Manager What are the wishes of my parents or loved ones? -Are there resources available locally that we can tap into? -Can I handle the needs on my own? -Is there money to pay for services or will insurance cover any of the needs and costs? Start planning early for these needs as decisions about home care, health care and housing can be overwhelming and costly. Look at the insurance coverages your parents or loved ones have or that may be available to them and speak to the agents if necessary so that you fully understand what is covered and what is not. Policy coverage ill vary some will include provisions for assisted living or long term care while others will not. Have an updated financial plan for yourself as well as for the elders. Having knowledge of their financial situation will allow you to understand their ability to pay for care ey may need. Understanding your finances will help you to know if you will be able to assist in the costs of caring for your parents or loved ones. Next time we will look at some help that is available. 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. Sanford Health WoodsEdge 1000 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-6211 www.WoodsEdgeSeniorLiving.com HEALTH