I’m reading a lot of reports about rural healthcare for seniors lately. It certainly is a real issue and if you’re being realistic as you make your own aging in place plans, you know we all will face care needs at some point.
There are many factors that concern rural medical care today, including budget cuts, the high volumes of senior Medicare patients, retirement income, insurance and more.
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The reality for seniors
There is going to be a shortage of doctors, medical facilities, caregivers and a lot of other things. And, the shortages won’t all be in rural areas, they will just be hit harder. Our country has never had to provide this coming level of care for the millions of Baby Boomers in (and going into) retirement. It is just a fact. Obviously, technological advancements will someday make it easier, such as telemedicine. But, we can’t count on that to be the answer now. That being said, it isn’t hopeless.
Aging in place planning is crucial
When you are thinking about where you are going to spend your retirement years, make sure you consider the availability of health care. Be realistic when you think about the level of care you might need and if you can get it where you are at. Do some research. If it doesn’t add up, start laying plans now.
Get involved in your community to find out how you can help be a part of the solution. Start or join a group focused on bringing medical care, caregivers or other service providers in to meet the needs of your local seniors. We can all make a difference in our collective future if we play it right.
If you’re 45 or 70, planning is imperative. Don’t fall prey to, “I’ll get to it some day.” Reach out to the aging in place professionals in your community that can help you, such as Certified Financial Planners, Certified Aging in Place Specialists, Certified Senior Advisors and others.
No plan is perfect. Even more true is that not planning is dangerous.
About Mark Hager