Anticipating the common challenges that seniors may face as they age can be a game-changer when it comes to senior living planning. So, what are some of the ways we can think ahead to keep ourselves safe, comfortable and as financially stable as possible in the years to come?

One of the first things we need to do to properly plan for senior living should – without a doubt – be early financial preparation, including estate planning which can minimize taxes and maximize lasting income.

Other very important things we can do in preparation of living our best senior lives are to practice preventive healthcare and adhere to a nutritional diet and healthy physical regimen. Remaining active (which may be accomplished by something as simple as walking every day), eating healthy and catching potential health issues early are all things that may help us maintain our health and independence for as long as possible.

When we begin to create a care plan for any what-ifs the future may hold, we need to ask ourselves a few very crucial questions:

• Do you need assistance with medication and tasks of daily living now or in the near future?
• Would it be better if you lived in a one-story so you no longer had to navigate stairs?
• Are your doctors accessible enough to your home?
• As it becomes more difficult to venture out and about, would it be better to live in a senior living community that prepared delicious meals for you?
• Are you able to remain active and social at your current home or would you benefit from the social advantages of a senior living community?

Once you have answered those questions, familiarize yourself with the best care giving options available…those that will continue to meet your needs as they change over time.

If you are a pet lover, don’t forget to include your furry friend in your senior living planning by considering senior living options which allow you to keep your pet right where they belong – with you!