Comments on: How to Budget for Elder Care

on 11/22/2005 Please don't forget that we are capable, and we need to have that respected. Living alone can steal confidence. We need someone to bounce our ideas and plans off of, but the decisions are still ours to make.

I have 25 years experience in elder care, as CEO of a retirement community. Now, I am elderly myself.

I have given many, many families this advice, and it's so true.

on 12/22/2005 If I am not mistaken, it is a good idea to transfer ownership of the home and land a good 7-8 years before any nursing home or other facility is anticipated. Don't wait. If the transfer is too close to the time to enter a facility, it will be determined it was done just for the purpose of keeping them from using the value of it as part of fees at a home etc. This information is for Alabama residents. Other states; best to check what your state declares.

on 11/22/2005 Geriatric care managers can assist families with many of these decisions and options. They are the coordinators of care for all elder needs. For more information check out a few Web sites.

on 11/22/2005 Excellent advice here! It's often difficult for both the parents and the children to get serious about aging and death. It may require a third, objective party to take the emotions out of the discussion - like the parents' tax preparer or their attorney.