Caring for an aging loved one is a responsibility that often falls on the shoulders of multiple family members. While the emotional and physical aspects of caregiving are significant, one aspect that can cause tension among family members is the division of financial responsibilities. In this article, we will delve into the common and less common costs associated with caregiving, potential conflicts, and how geriatric care management can play a crucial role in mediating and advising families.
Let’s go over some common and less-common costs of caregiving:
Basic Living Expenses: Beyond the obvious costs of housing, utilities, and groceries, consider additional expenses like home maintenance, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance. Discussing how these costs will be shared can prevent misunderstandings later on.
Medical Expenses: Ensure everyone is aware of the senior's health insurance coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses. This includes medications, doctor visits, and potential hospital stays. Consider creating a healthcare fund to cover unforeseen medical costs.
Home Modifications: As seniors age, their living spaces may need modifications for safety and accessibility. Discuss who will bear the costs of these modifications, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts.
In-Home Care Services: Hiring caregivers for assistance with daily activities is a significant expense. Explore options like respite care and government assistance programs. Establish a clear plan for sharing the costs, whether through a rotation schedule or financial contributions.
Legal and Financial Planning: Estate planning, wills, and financial management are critical aspects. Encourage the family to consult with a lawyer to establish clear legal documentation. Discussing these matters early on can prevent conflicts and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Potential conflicts and resentment tend to boil down to three major factors:
Unequal Financial Contributions: Differences in income among family members may lead to disparities in financial contributions. Openly discuss each individual's financial capacity and explore creative solutions, such as proportional contributions based on income.
Differing Opinions on Care Approaches: Conflicts may arise regarding the type and extent of care needed. Establishing a care plan with input from all family members can prevent disagreements and ensure everyone is aligned with the senior's needs.
Lack of Communication: Poor communication can exacerbate misunderstandings and resentment. Encourage open and honest communication about expectations, concerns, and potential challenges. Regular family meetings can provide a structured platform for these discussions.
So, how do we address these conflicts?
Open Communication: Create a safe space for family members to express their thoughts and concerns. Encourage active listening and empathy to foster understanding among siblings and relatives.
Family Meetings: Regular family meetings can provide a platform to discuss concerns and find common ground. Establish an agenda for these meetings to address specific topics, including financial responsibilities, caregiving duties, and future planning.
Utilizing a Mediator: Geriatric care managers can act as neutral mediators to help navigate family discussions. Their expertise can facilitate compromise and guide families toward mutually beneficial solutions.
You can save yourself and your loved ones a lot of heartache by covering some of your planning in advance. Here is a simplified, basic checklist to keep in mind:
Financial Planning: Start conversations about senior care early to allow time for financial planning. Consider consulting with a financial planner who specializes in eldercare to create a comprehensive financial strategy.
Legal Documentation: Ensure legal documents such as wills and powers of attorney are in place. Work with an attorney to update these documents as needed and communicate the decisions to all family members involved.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Explore options for long-term care insurance to alleviate future financial burdens. Research different policies and discuss whether this investment aligns with the family's overall financial plan.
Many families find that bringing in a geriatric care manager tends to lead to real solutions and take much of the limiting family dynamics out of the question. Here are some things that a GCM will usually cover:
Financial Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the senior's financial situation. This includes reviewing income, assets, and potential expenses. Use this information to create a realistic budget for caregiving expenses.
Mediation and Guidance: Provide neutral mediation to resolve financial conflicts among family members. Geriatric care managers can offer insights into fair financial arrangements and guide families through the decision-making process.
Resource Allocation: Advise on optimal resource allocation to meet the senior's needs. This involves prioritizing necessary expenses, exploring cost-effective solutions, and identifying available community resources.
One thing to keep in mind when dealing with financial questions surrounding elderly care is that the aging person’s interests should come first!
Holistic Care Approach: Emphasize the importance of addressing the senior's physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Consider their preferences and desires when making financial decisions related to care.
Quality of Life: Strive to enhance the aging person's quality of life while managing costs responsibly. Focus on experiences and activities that bring joy and fulfillment, recognizing that maintaining emotional well-being is an integral part of overall health.
Did you know that you can hire a geriatric care manager on our team for a one-time phone or Zoom consult regarding this matter and/or other matters of aging and senior care? We offer 2-hour assessments to answer all your questions, come up with an actionable plan, ensure you have all your bases covered, and point you to any helpful resources. You can book this type of consult through our page: seniorsteps.org/book-online