Facebook Pixel
Q: 

Who will care for you when you get too old to care for yourself?

By May 4, 2008 - 7:54am
 
Rate This

I'm in my 30s. It's too early for me to even think about this.

Or is it?

I'm wondering if anyone has thought about their care when they get too old or too infirm to care for themselves - or if anyone has actually planned it out?

In some societies, there is no question about placing an older loved one in a nursing home. They remain with the family until they die.

But in western societies, we tend not to live with our elderly - we tend to live with our nuclear families/partners/spouses.

Nursing Homes and Assisted Living care is a huge business here in America. But they are very costly.

Where do you think you'll end up?

I like the thought of Assisted Living which means you have your own apartment but access to nursing care, activities and transporation if you need or want it.

Like many people, the thought of a nursing home to me is a bit depressing. Many nursing homes are wonderful but I think most of us would prefer to live in our own homes until the end.

What do you think of the so-called "mother-in-law" suites that are attached to many houses? And why are they not simply called "in-law suites"? I know women tend to outlive men but for men to be left off the title is a little presumptuous!

I wouldn't mind my inlaws living with us, but as long as we had an inlaw suite. Everyone needs their privacy and independence.

Had anyone made a plan for this yet? Or have any thoughts or preferences? Have you done the financial planning for this? Where will you be when you are 80? I'd be interested to hear!

Add a Comment2 Comments

Great Posts. With such a large part of the baby boomers getting older and their parents aging as well I have a feeling we will be seeing much more information in society about this very important topic-caring for your parents. I am 44 and we have an extra garage in our house that I am planning on turning into an apt for my parents when the time comes. I would prefer to have them live with us and have some one come in to attend to them.

May 4, 2008 - 4:21pm

What an important topic. Had not really thought of it and after doing a little research on it, received a major jolt. According to the AARP, many assisted living centers average about $2,500 a month and with more people living longer, how many years can someone afford to pay for that service?

Am hearing more and more about Americans moving to other countries to live out their retirements there with the thought being if they need assisted living care there, they may stretch their limited funds further. What's your opinion? Assisted living in the U.S.? In-law suites? Ex-pats? What do you think is the best option for people who may need extra care in their later years but who are on a limited income?

May 4, 2008 - 11:22am
Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy
Add a Comment

All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.

Caregiving

Get Email Updates

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!