Ultimate Guide to Senior & Elder Care Planning

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The Ultimate Guide To Senior & Elder Care Planning

By Stefanie Shumaker, M.Div.

Introduction

There is so much we may not understand or be aware of when it comes to options and resources available to our elderly population, until we find ourselves concerned about a member of our family.

From health care to finances or living arrangements, there is much to consider. During my career as a hospice chaplain, I have observed several specific topics that most families will need to engage in the later years of a loved one’s life. My hope is that you will find this resource to be a helpful guide as you have those tough conversations and move forward with a healthy and safe plan.

Your aging loved one may be exhibiting forgetfulness or a level of physical decline that has caused you to think about his or her current living situation and future needs. You may be wondering how you will care for an aging parent at home, whether or not you should consider care center options, and which legal documents are most pertinent when navigating elder care. You might also be struggling with questions to ask your aging parents regarding their needs and wishes. I believe it is important to have conversations early on in order to map out the best plan that will allow your loved one to thrive in those later years!

As you have these conversations and consider your options, this quote is a good one to keep in mind:

“We want autonomy for ourselves and safety for those we love. That remains the main problem and paradox for the frail. Many of the things that we want for those we care about are things that we would adamantly oppose for ourselves because they would infringe upon our sense of self.”

– Atul Gawande

You will find some much-needed advice in the pages that follow. Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to further discuss any of these topics and your loved one’s particular situation.

NEXT – Chapter 1: How to develop a senior aging plan that respects the voice and wishes of your loved one

Download a printable and sharable version (PDF) of this guide.

Reviews

“Stefanie was so wonderful working with our family. As we grappled with my mom’s rapid decline, we felt quite lost as to where to turn. Stefanie came in at a moment’s notice to meet with us, soothe our fears, and help us to see clear next steps. She was exactly what we needed at the perfect time, and has been wonderful ever since, checking in often and helping us with our needs and concerns. We would highly, highly recommend her!”

Elisa Oliver, Denver, Colorado

“Stefanie is more than a caretaker, she has become a great friend. My Grandpa looks forward to every visit with her. It gives me great piece of mind knowing that my Grandpa has her to take care of him. She has been at several family gatherings, goes above and beyond in helping with errands and keeps me updated on the status of Grandpa’s health and needs when she visits. I am so grateful to have her in our lives and would absolutely recommend her special skills and compassion to any family needing services of this nature.”

Nikki Warden, Bountiful, UT

“Stefanie was my life saver in the 16 months leading up to my husband’s passing. Our sons live in California so I was alone through the COVID 19 virus and Greg’s decline. It was a difficult time. Stefanie was always there for me spiritually and emotionally. If I had questions about his care, she would follow up with the answers right away. Greg really liked her and she lifted our spirits with laughter. After Greg’s passing she has provided compassionate bereavement support. Stefanie is a fantastic hospice chaplain and has become a wonderful friend.”

- Kathy Lanterman, Ogden, UT

About Me and My Credentials

Stefanie Shumaker, MDiv

Stefanie has a Master of Divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary with an emphasis in counseling and practical theology. Stefanie has worked specifically in the area of senior care for the last five years as a hospice chaplain for several different companies in the Salt Lake valley which has given her first-hand experience with facilities, home health and hospice care, patient care management, patient and family transitions, family mediation, funeral planning and Alzheimer’s education. Stefanie grew up around the elderly, tagging along with her mom who delivered Meals on Wheels and worked as a chaplain. Years after grieving the death of her mom, Stefanie found her way to this vocation through a love for helping people through grief and difficult circumstances.

Stefanie’s experience within the system of senior care has led her to realize families need guidance from someone who can offer unbiased recommendations regarding the needs and care of their loved ones. Stefanie continues to work as a chaplain because she loves her patients, and it allows her to stay current on senior care needs and resources. She belongs to the Utah Gerontological Society and the Aging Life Care Association. You will find Stefanie on the trails and in the mountains in her free time.

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