Pamela D. Wilson - The Care Navigator

Think your parent is invincible?  One day he or she will need care.  If you’re a child who hasn’t quite grown up, who still relies on mom and dad for financial support think again.  Cash allowances, gifts or loans can threaten your parent’s ability to access Medicaid if and when the time comes.  Many children don’t consider the long term needs of parents when they ask for money.  If you have the best long term interest of your parents at heart become independent and earn your own way.  If not you’ll place your parent’s ability to access care at risk when they need help the most.  

We’re a nation divided on healthcare, with a president who promised to unite the parties but who has done everything to put a wedge in between them - pushing foward with reconciliation of a 2500+ page health care bill that most, including elected officials haven’t read.  Do you know what you’re voting for?  The government paying for abortions?  Programs promising to decrease costs that won’t be estimated for 12 months or more?  Don’t get caught up in the I’m a Democrat you’re a Republican argument.  Get caught up in the real facts, do your research that proves that passing this entire bill without changes may not be in the best interest of the American Public or the national deficit. There’s still time to become educated and have your voice be heard.

I wrote a letter to President Obama today about healthcare reform.  The public has become complacent — we’ve let government take over healthcare and as a result spending is out of control.  Special interests like insurance and pharmaceutical companies pad the government’s coffers so they can’t do the right thing which is turn their back on the money.  If healthcare were a free market good like the cereal you eat in the morning insurance companies would have to become competitive to bid for our dollars.

Recently I admitted a client to a hospital where the physician immediately wanted to change medications without asking about medical history. Fortunately with this client I had years of experience and extensive background that I was able to provide. For family members if you find yourself in this situation be sure to step in and provide whatever information you have so that your loved one is not put through unnecessary changes due to lack of information.

Is your loved one experiencing depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder or other mental health issues? Often individuals experiencing these issues have little insight into the situation. While it’s extremely difficult for family members it’s important to be empathetic and seek professional help. Don’t feel you have to manage alone, consult a professional.

When moving parents or loved ones it’s important to choose a mover familiar with the stresses of the situation. There are many moving companies for “things” and few moving companies for “lives”. A move for an older adult is stressful. Choose a moving company who understands the complexities of the situation and will work with you and your loved one to move a life well lived not just furniture well used.

Are you procrastinating or delaying a decision because you just don’t know what you need? Often lack of education or information places us in a rut that can last until a crises causes us to make a decision. Gather information, consult professionals and move past your ruts in order to avoid crises planning.

Choosing the right care community can be a daunting task. Small, medium sized, large, low cost, high cost, independent, assisted - there are so many varieties. Start planning early and you’ll have time to make a decision that will stick for the long run.

In 1997 AARP established a relationship with United Healthcare to sell Medicare gap insurance under the name AARP/Medicare Complete from Secure Horizons. According to a Washington Post article published 10/27/2009, AARP’s association with United Healthcare delivered $400 million in revenue which represents more on an annual basis that monies generated from membership. AARP is also spending $37 million lobbying in Washington for a government run health care bill that will put more money in their pocket. Who does AARP represent? The healthcare industry or vulnerable seniors who seek information, education and advocacy. It’s unclear. What’s your opinion?

Your parents live across country or in a city miles away. You’re aware they need help but you feel helpless. Offer them local support for services they require and if they don’t have the financial assets to pay, share costs with brothers and sisters. Then start making a plan for “what ifs”. What if mom and dad’s health becomes worse? What if mom or dad passes away? What if?