Episode 278

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Published on:

15th Nov 2023

The Sandwich Generation: Navigating the Challenges of Aging Parents

In this episode, Amy Irvine continues the conversation on the challenges faced by the sandwich generation, those who are simultaneously caring for their aging parents and their own children. She provides practical advice on various aspects of caregiving, including healthcare plans, transportation options, community involvement, hiring a fiduciary, and backing up important documents. Amy also discusses the benefits of considering a continuing care retirement community and emphasizes the importance of having ongoing conversations about aging parents' care.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Find the right healthcare plan for your aging parents based on their specific needs and circumstances.
  2. Explore transportation options for your parents, such as public transportation or organizations that provide free transportation for seniors.
  3. Ensure that your parents have a sense of community and social interaction to prevent feelings of isolation and depression.
  4. Consider hiring a fiduciary to manage your parents' finances and protect against fraudulent activity.
  5. Back up important documents and photos on your parents' phones to ensure easy access and documentation of their belongings.
  6. Explore continuing care retirement communities as a potential option for comprehensive care and a sense of community for aging parents.

Quotes:

  • "Finding somebody to help you find the right insurance plan for your parents will be very helpful in the financial toll that it takes on them."
  • "Being aware of the circle of friends, being aware of their community involvement, and making sure that your parents don't stay locked up in their home, unintentionally, of course, but that's certainly something to be aware of."
  • "A fiduciary can pay the bills, can be a protectant against any kind of fraudulent activity."
  • "Making sure that your parents don't get ripped off as part of that process is really important."
  • "Doing some tours just like you do tours of college campuses, considering doing some tours of some of the wonderful communities that are actually out there."

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The Importance of Healthcare Planning

One of the first considerations when it comes to caring for aging parents is their healthcare plan. It's crucial to find the right insurance coverage that suits their specific needs. This can be a daunting task, but there are resources available to help. The Office for the Aging and Medicare brokers can assist in determining the most suitable plan based on factors such as medications, doctors, and chronic conditions. Finding the right insurance plan can alleviate the financial burden on your parents and ensure they receive the necessary care.

Transportation Solutions for Aging Parents

As driving becomes more challenging for aging parents, finding reliable transportation options becomes essential. Public transportation services for the elderly may be available in certain counties or states. Additionally, some organizations offer free transportation services for individuals over the age of 65. Consulting with your parents' physicians or local community organizations can provide valuable information on transportation options. Ensuring that your parents have access to transportation not only helps them maintain their independence but also fosters a sense of community and prevents isolation.

Building and Maintaining a Supportive Community

The lack of interaction and community can be a significant concern for aging parents who live alone. As their circle of friends diminishes, they may experience feelings of loneliness and depression. It's crucial to be aware of their community involvement and encourage social connections. Engaging in activities and programs specifically designed for seniors can help combat isolation and provide a sense of belonging. By actively supporting your parents' social interactions, you can contribute to their overall well-being.

The Role of a Fiduciary in Financial Management

When distance becomes a barrier to providing hands-on financial assistance, hiring a fiduciary can be a viable solution. A fiduciary acts as a financial guardian, ensuring bills are paid, protecting against fraudulent activity, and overseeing the overall financial well-being of your parents. This can be particularly beneficial if you are unable to be physically present to manage their finances. Many organizations offer fiduciary services, allowing you to entrust the financial aspects of your parents' care to a qualified professional.

Safeguarding Memories and Assets

Preserving memories and safeguarding assets is another crucial aspect of caring for aging parents. By ensuring that your parents have access to a cell phone or emergency phone, you can facilitate communication and provide a lifeline in case of emergencies. It's essential to back up any important photos or documents stored on their phones, either by adding them to your plan or regularly receiving copies. This way, you can protect cherished memories and have documentation of their possessions, which can be valuable in case of any issues or concerns.

Exploring Continuing Care Retirement Communities

As the aging process continues, it's important to consider long-term care options for your parents. Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) offer a comprehensive solution by providing a sense of community, transportation services, and various levels of care. CCRCs often require an upfront commitment, but some communities offer the possibility of a return on this investment. By choosing a CCRC, you can ensure that your parents receive the care they need while potentially recouping a portion of the initial commitment. Exploring different CCRCs and taking tours can help you make an informed decision while your parents still have a say in their future.

Conclusion: Nurturing the Sandwich Generation

Caring for aging parents while raising a family of your own is a delicate balancing act. It requires careful planning, open communication, and a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of everyone involved. By addressing the key themes discussed in this conversation, such as healthcare planning, transportation solutions, community engagement, fiduciary services, asset protection, and exploring CCRCs, you can navigate the challenges of the sandwich generation with greater ease.

As we continue to explore this topic, it's important to remember that the care of aging parents is an ongoing process. By having open and honest conversations, touring potential care facilities, and staying informed about available resources, you can make informed decisions that prioritize the health and happiness of your loved ones. The journey may be challenging, but with the right support and strategies in place, you can provide the care and support your parents need while maintaining your own well-being.

Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we encourage you to share this article with others who may benefit from these insights. Together, we can navigate the complexities of the sandwich generation and create a brighter future for our families.

This episode is brought to you by Rooted Planning Group. Rooted Planning Group is a fee-only financial planning firm that specializes in working with women in their 30s and 40s who want to take control of their finances and plan for the future. Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to make a big change, Rooted Planning Group can help.

Visit www.rootedpg.com to learn more.

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About the Podcast

Money Roots
Money Roots with Amy Irvine
Welcome to "Money Roots," the podcast where personal finance becomes personal. Join host Amy Irvine, CEO of Rooted Planning Group, as she demystifies the world of finance and makes it approachable for everyone, from beginners to financial experts.

In each episode, Amy and her guests dig deep into the financial soil, planting the seeds of financial knowledge and helping you nurture your financial future. Whether you're looking to build a solid budget, invest wisely, or plan for retirement, "Money Roots" has you covered.

Get ready to explore practical advice, inspiring stories, and expert insights that will empower you to take control of your financial destiny. It's time to grow your money roots and thrive financially!

Subscribe to "Money Roots" now and join Amy on this exciting journey to financial empowerment. Let's put down some roots and flourish together.

About your host

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Amy Irvine

Uncorking Amy Irvine!!

If any of you have ever met Amy, you know she is passionate about
three things. Family, Finances, and WINE! This comes through in all
that she does and all that she is. When asked to describe herself she first and foremost states, “I am a wife, a daughter, and hopefully a good friend, who happens to also be a financial planner.” Amy holds a Master’s Degree in financial planning and is a Certified Financial Planner TM , Enrolled Agent, Certified College Financial Consultant, and a Financial Wellness Coach with over 25 years of financial planning and industry experience. She is the Founder and owner of Rooted Planning Group, (Formerly known as Irvine Wealth Planning Strategies LLC), which started in 2016 and has grown to include 6 other planners and 2 part-time staff members. Amy is definitely “doing it her way” and has been recognized by her financial planning colleagues as being a “disrupter,” a title she holds close to her heart and is proud of.

Uniquely, at the age of 44, she decided to not only start her only company, but to act on what she defined as her perfect life and she splits her time between Parrish, Florida and Jasper, New York.
On her website it states, “I love what I do, but I also very much enjoy warmth, good
conversation, wine tastings, and volunteering. New York is extraordinary in the summer and fall, but so is Florida in the winter.”
In 2018, she decided it was time to take the stigma out of finances by combining her passion for finances and wine. She started a podcast called “Wine and Dime,” which highlights a different wine and financial topic each week, and she released her book combining those same two passions, titled, “Uncork Your Finances.”
Many of you may know her as one of the co-founders of the Southern Tier Women’s Financial Conference – a day of collaboration and financial education, which will be hosting it’s sixth year!
To round out her volunteering passion, she often provides financial education to the
community through the financial management program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Steuben County, she serves on the board of Faith-in-Action of Steuben County, volunteers for various Fund For Women of the Southern Tier events, works with the finance committee of the Arts Council of the Southern Finger Lakes, and serves on the board for the Corning Painted Post Historical Society (also known as Heritage Village).
In her downtime, you’re likely to find her with a glass of red wine from one of the many Keuka or Seneca Lake wineries that she highlights in her Wine and Dime Podcast.