America has never been ready for us! As we came of age in the 60’s and 70’s, our voices were heard in politics, science, societal norms, philanthropy, and loudly from an economic prospective. We have created a paradigm shift in our world. Think Microsoft, Apple, a female candidate for President – you get the picture. Now, as we approach aging, there is no telling about the power that is at our fingertips. But, this power is predicated on us taking on this life stage as we have everything else – by thinking outside the box. We have never been our parents’ generation; we have been the movers and shakers of the world. We have never given away our power. We have been prepared for what lies ahead. Now, as we see our age in the eyes of our friends, we must garnish our resources and figure out how to live out the next stage on our own terms.
As an Aging Life Care Professional and aging Boomer, this reality has been hitting home regularly. Recently, at my Zumba class, I reviewed some of the stories of those dancing along side me. The realtor with the new zipper scar, the retired lawyer whose husband has Parkinson’s Disease, the retired psychologist with Fibromyalgia and each one of us – wounded warriors and consummate dancers still doing our thing. But as the discussion continued that day, we determined that this is our “new normal” requiring firm actions and acceptance of our brave new world.
Maintaining Power
We can’t deny that things are changing. As boomers know, our social connections have never been more relevant. This is a time of not going it alone. It is a time of declaring our goals and enjoying every minute of our lives. We have always sought to change the world and now this is a new and personal opportunity.
Designing a Roadmap for the Future
The first step is to repack your bags for the next stage of life! Follow these easy but challenging steps:
- Passion
It’s important to explore what gives your life meaning. Reflect and meditate. Think about what gives you joy and how it feels when you are expressing your authentic self. It’s a place to start. Your skills, life experiences, and wisdom can be repackaged for the next chapter.
- Audit
Review your life. Capitalize on your connections and relationships in the workplace and social life. Think about what you want and what you need. You can think about re-packaging a new career path or working towards a cause that you believe in. The possibilities are limitless and may be simpler than you think. Take stock of your assets especially finances. A visit with your financial planner may be critical as well as taking stock of your insurance, investments, wills, power of attorney documents, advance directives. Doing the paperwork of life leads to your independence and control.
- Create Your Team
Our parents were often the folks who wanted to keep their personal affairs a secret. We have clients who don’t have a clue about their parents’ finances until they are incapacitated. Don’t make the mistake of going it alone. You are as strong as the team of people you assemble to help navigate this period of your life. Here is an example of your team:
- Financial Planner
- Estate and/or Elder Law Attorney
- Health Care
- Aging Life Care Professional – Medical Advocacy
Our experience has shown us that a strong, hand selected team makes the difference between staying in power or being out of control. Having a team who has the financial, legal, and health care smarts to create documents, manage resources, and provide for the highest level of medical advocacy leads to positive outcomes that no one person can achieve on their own.
- Kick-Start the Process
Know when its time to make a change. Being proactive is the key to empowering ourselves. Make changes when you are still in the driver’s seat. And most of all, live out your bucket list, appreciate what you have, and celebrate all you have contributed to your families and this unpredictable life!
PACK
These steps are a means to keep our power intact. Aging will happen no matter what we do to prevent it. If we are to stay on the playing field, we must PACK our bags and do what is necessary to maintain control and bring us joy! The best antidote to age and death is – life.
About the Author
Beverly Bernstein Joie is the founder and president of Complete Care Strategies, a senior care management company serving Philadelphia and its surrounding communities. A Certified Aging Life Care Manager with more than 20 years of experience, Beverly has worked in senior care since 1994, both in assisted living communities and in private practice. She is a member of the Aging Life Care Association and was a former president of the Philadelphia Chapter.
Complete Care Strategies consists of care managers, specialized human service professionals, who advocate and direct the care of seniors and others facing ongoing health challenges. Working with families, its expertise provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Along with its licensed home care division, it can help clients safely remain at home under the watchful eye of skilled professionals. Families are afforded an integrated model of care that, with guidance and advocacy, lead them to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love