Our Blog DO JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Putting It Into Words
Well, here I am dealing with another of life’s offerings. I am recovering from prostate surgery. Some of you may know of my “colorful health history.” Suffice it to say there has been a set back because of other chronic health conditions. I have been thinking about this all in the context of what many elderly folks face regarding long term care health needs. If I were 78, a little more wobbly on my feet, and perhaps a little slower remembering what the doctor just told me, what would that be like? VULNERABLE is a word that comes to mind. Right now I have to rely on my wife to get me to appointments. What if she were the same age and felt unsafe driving in heavy traffic? Catheter care could also present a daunting challenge. And what if this condition were permanent? Several other emotions come to mind, like FEAR, GUILT, AND HELPLESSNESS. Any wonder that depression is a major diagnosis in the elderly?
What does all this do with business and my helping people plan ahead to deal with serious health issues? Well, my personal reality required me to see what a long term care event might be like. The situations and obstacles have been similar, and the emotions are very real. LTC insurance can’t make these go away, but it can lessen the impact long term care events can have on us and our families. I have three grown kids who would do anything for their mother and me. They have told us so. But we are still at the point where we want to minimize their involvement and be in control of our lives, to make important decisions for ourselves. I sense that my will for independence will still be there at age 78 or even 85. In our own situation I am secure that if something should happen to my wife, we are covered. We have a plan and a policy. Since I don’t qualify for this coverage because of my “colorful health history,” I still have a sense of VULNERABILITY. Have you ever been in this place in your life? Share it with us. Maybe just putting it into words can be therapeutic for you – like it has been for me.
