There is an aging issue we have all heard about; baby boomers have now reached 65 and are ready to retire. We also keep hearing that seniors are happier living in their own homes, the homes they raised their families in and now their grandchildren. Most of these seniors want to stay in their own home, no matter what it takes.

But wait, are we talking about what it is going to take to achieve this? Have you had the conversations that will take your ideas and thoughts and turn them into reality? The choice of aging in place can be achieved but safety and dignity must be a big part of the discussion.

What exactly are we getting ourselves into as caregivers taking care of our elderly parents or loved ones? Do we know what changes we will have to make?

Do we even know what questions we need to be asking?

Here are some ideas for the questions you should ask yourself and discuss:

1. What does aging in place mean? Does your elderly loved one want to stay in their home, is it really possible? What kind of modifications will have to be made to the home for an elderly senior to live comfortably and not become a prisoner. For example; how many stairs do you have to walk up or down? Is the bathroom spacious enough to accommodate a walker or a wheelchair?

2. What would your elderly loved ones like to see as they age, what do they envision, is there enough money to support the list of wants versus needs?

3. What stage are your elderly loved ones at now? Are they coping with the daily activities of life? Are they still able to drive, go to appointments, prepare their meals, clean their own homes, and take care of themselves personally? Have you noticed any changes, have you admitted to yourself something is not right, maybe mom or dad could use a little more help. Where can I find someone to help them a few hours a week?

4. Have you begun discussions with your family (siblings) and parents as to how to cope as a family in the event of sudden illness, a fall or major hospital stay? What happens next?

5. As a primary caregiver what allowances have you made for yourself? Who will help you in the event of an illness, or hospital stay? After all we are still working, running our businesses and raising our families. How will you manage?

All of these questions are easily answered and are meant to get all of us thinking about the inevitable. Making a few plans for our future gives us peace of mind. Starting these conversations with our elderly loved one, is a way that reassures our love and commitment to each other, that families can remain together with a little planning and thought and it doesn’t have to be difficult, we just have to start now.