Long-Term Care Planning Before the Holidays

Long-Term Care Planning Before the Holidays: What Families Should Be Doing Now

As summer kicks into gear, most families are focused on vacations, cookouts, and enjoying a little downtime. But while the days are long and the calendar is light, now is actually the perfect time to start thinking about something critically important: long-term care planning for aging loved ones.

It might seem premature—after all, the holidays are months away. But the truth is, the earlier you start planning for long-term care, the more options you and your family will have. And by starting these conversations in June, you avoid the emotional weight and time crunch that often accompany holiday gatherings.

Why June Is the Right Time to Plan

Summer gives families a rare opportunity: time to breathe and reflect before the year’s end rush. If you’ve noticed a parent slowing down, a partner expressing concern about health changes, or if you’ve simply been putting off the topic, June is the time to act.

Here’s why:

• Family gatherings are low-stress right now. Conversations about care preferences can happen naturally over a cup of coffee—not in the middle of a holiday dinner.
• Planning takes time. Whether it’s applying for long-term care insurance, establishing a Medicaid asset protection trust, or updating essential documents, these processes often take weeks or months.
• You’ll be prepared before a crisis hits. Too many families wait until a health emergency forces quick decisions. Starting now lets you plan thoughtfully and thoroughly.

What Long-Term Care Planning Involves

You don’t need all the answers today—but understanding the key components of a long-term care plan can help you take the first steps with confidence.

1. Assessing Current and Future Needs

Think about:

• Physical health and mobility
• Cognitive changes
• Support systems (family nearby? solo living?)
• Financial resources and limitations

2. Exploring Care Options

Long-term care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Common options include:

• In-home care for those who want to age in place
• Assisted living communities with daily support and social engagement
• Skilled nursing facilities for more advanced medical care
• Adult day care programs for part-time support

3. Reviewing Financial Strategies

Care is expensive—but careful planning can help:

• Private pay (savings, retirement income)
• Long-term care insurance
• Medicaid planning (especially for nursing home costs)
• Veterans benefits (if applicable)

4. Ensuring Legal Documents Are in Place

Your plan should be backed by sound legal tools, including:

• Durable power of attorney
• Healthcare proxy
• Living will/advance directive
• Revocable or irrevocable trust
• Updated will or estate plan

Starting the Conversation: Tips for Families

Talking about long-term care can be emotional—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few ways to make it easier:

• Approach it as a team effort. Emphasize that this is about honoring your loved one’s wishes and ensuring peace of mind for everyone.
• Ask open-ended questions. “What are your hopes for the future?” or “Have you thought about where you’d like to live if you ever needed help?”
• Be a good listener. Let your loved one guide the conversation as much as possible.
• Bring in a professional. If emotions run high or decisions feel complicated, an elder law attorney can help guide the process calmly and clearly.

The Legal Side: How We Can Help

Our role is to make long-term care planning easier—not harder. We help families:

• Protect assets through smart Medicaid planning
• Draft or update essential documents
• Understand caregiver agreements and estate implications
• Avoid costly mistakes, like gifting assets without a plan

By working with an experienced elder law attorney, you can ensure your loved one’s care is secured without jeopardizing their financial future.

June Long-Term Care Planning Checklist ✅

Here’s a simple list to get started:

✔ Schedule a family conversation

✔ Review or locate existing estate planning documents

✔ Talk to your loved one about care preferences

✔ Research local care options and costs

✔ Schedule a consultation with an elder law attorney

Let’s Plan Ahead—Together

Long-term care planning isn’t just about nursing homes or finances—it’s about dignity, security, and peace of mind. Starting now ensures your family has time to make informed, compassionate decisions without the pressure of a crisis.

We’re here to help. If you’re not sure where to start, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Let’s take the first step together—while there’s still time to plan with confidence.