Welcome to another episode of Modern Financial Wellness! I’m your host, Jim Grace. In this episode, we tackle an essential but often overlooked part of financial wellness—how we support our loved ones (and ourselves) as we age. Whether you’re part of the sandwich generation juggling kids and aging parents, or you’re planning ahead for your own well-being, today’s conversation is for you.

To guide us through the complexities of aging and care planning, I’m joined by Jennifer Mahoney, head of Live Well Care Management (formerly AZA Care Management). With over three decades of experience in Greater Boston, Jennifer and her team of healthcare professionals help families navigate the maze of senior care, advocate for loved ones, and coordinate personalized plans for happier, more connected aging.

Key Takeaways:

1. Start the Conversation Before a Crisis: Most families reach out to care managers after a fall, hospitalization, or urgent diagnosis. But proactive planning, like Jennifer’s “Peace of Mind Program,” establishes a relationship and understanding long before emergencies arise—saving stress and improving outcomes.
2. Care Managers Aren’t Just for Healthcare: Live Well’s team handles everything from medical advocacy and managing appointments to arranging social outings and digital connections. Quality of life for seniors goes beyond medicine—it’s about relationships and daily joy.
3. Delegating Care Coordination is an Investment in Relationships: Caring for a parent or spouse often brings stress, time pressures, and even guilt. Hiring a care manager doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your responsibility—it frees you up to be more present as a spouse, son, or daughter and creates a healthier dynamic for everyone involved.
4. There’s Help (and Funding) Beyond Private Pay: Jennifer highlights lesser-known Medicare Advantage benefits, VA programs, and local resources like senior centers and councils on aging. A seasoned care manager navigates these options, ensuring families don’t miss out on valuable support.
5. Handle Resistance with Empathy and Communication: If a loved one is reluctant to accept help, frame the conversation around your need for support—“I need someone local to help me help you.” And remember, care managers can advocate for the senior’s true needs, even when family expectations don’t align.

If you’re preparing for aging—your own or a loved one’s—the key is to plan ahead. Have the conversations early, reach out to care management, and don’t go it alone. Everyone will be better off for it.

Be sure to subscribe to Modern Financial Wellness for more conversations that help you and your family thrive—financially, emotionally, and beyond!