As we journey through life, the idea of planning for our senior years can feel like a distant concern—until it’s not. Preparing for the golden years is more than just saving money; it’s about creating a roadmap for a secure, meaningful, and well-supported life. However, certain aspects of senior planning are often underestimated, leaving individuals and families scrambling to address overlooked needs.
So, how do you start—or even reassess—your future planning? A great place to begin is with a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM). At RVNAhealth, Geriatric Care Management is available to anyone looking for guidance in planning for their own or a loved one’s future.
According to Amy Feder, LCSW, Certified Care Manager and one of RVNAhealth’s expert GCMs, even the most meticulous planners can overlook key details that significantly impact peace of mind and satisfaction with aging plans.
“By addressing the crucial yet underappreciated areas, you can give yourself—and your loved ones—the invaluable gift of a well-planned future.”
While Geriatric Care Management Services might not top your holiday wish list, consider some often-overlooked aspects of planning that could change your perspective.
Planning Today for a Better Tomorrow
1. Where Will You Spend Your Golden Years?
Many people aim to age in place, but few evaluate whether their homes can accommodate evolving needs. Features like single-level living, wider doorways, or grab bars might seem unnecessary now but can become essential later.
A proactive approach includes assessing your home for potential modifications and setting a budget for these updates. Even if staying at home is your preference, life’s unpredictability makes it wise to explore alternative housing options.
Geriatric Care Managers can guide you through every aspect of housing planning. From conducting home safety assessments and budgeting for modifications to exploring alternative living arrangements, they help ensure you’re prepared for any scenario.
2. Closing the Gaps in Your Planning
Even meticulous planners can overlook critical details. Perhaps you’ve drafted advanced directives, created an estate plan, or organized legacy documents. But have you communicated your wishes clearly to loved ones? Are you confident your chosen representatives understand—and are prepared to uphold—your preferences?
A Geriatric Care Manager can review and refine these plans to make them airtight. They can provide tools to navigate difficult conversations and even facilitate family meetings to ensure your intentions are clear.
3. Building Your Support Team
Many assume family will naturally step into caregiving or advocacy roles. However, factors like distance, time constraints, or the complexities of aging can make this assumption problematic.
In such cases, a Geriatric Care Manager can act as an independent advocate, complementing or even leading your support system. At RVNAhealth, our Geriatric Care Management services expand your team even further through access to a wide network of resources, including RVNAhealth’s visiting nurses, rehabilitation therapies, private caregivers, palliative care, hospice care, and more. As your needs change, solutions are just one phone call away!
The Legacy of Thoughtful Planning
Planning for the future isn’t just a gift to yourself; it’s a profound gift to your loved ones. By addressing often-overlooked areas, you offer them peace of mind, clarity, and a sense of security. A well-planned future goes beyond financial readiness—it creates a legacy of purpose, connection, and confidence.
Start planning your future today. Contact RVNAhealth at 203.438.5555 or fill out our contact form to learn how we can guide you toward a secure and meaningful future. It’s a gift you’ll always be grateful you gave.
About RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.
Prior to her new role, Amy worked as an RVNAhealth Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker. She has also worked for many years as a Geriatric Care Manager for the Senior Choice at Home program through Jewish Senior Services. Amy’s background as a Certified Dementia Practitioner/ Geriatric Case Manager has provided her a unique ability in supporting geriatric patients and their families. Amy has facilitated caregiver support groups throughout assisted living facilities in Connecticut and has spoken on the importance of self-care for family members caring for elderly loved ones.
