Bruce Nemovitz

Last month's article dealt with the second greatest fear preventing a needed move. The answer was downsizing. Taking 'baby steps' and seeking professionals to help with the packing, sorting, and selling of your treasured items can get you moving in the right direction. My respondents (700 seniors who attended my moving seminars) answered the question, 'what is your greatest fear about the future?' The number one answer was personal health issues! When I asked what specifically caused greatest concern, the answers were understandable. Concerns included: loss of physical ability, problems making decisions, pain and suffering. There were others who were concerned with the future of their spouse if their own illness or death would leave the remaining spouse with hardship and loneliness. Some seniors worry about being left alone with no one to care for them if their spouse should become ill.

What can you do to better prepare for the future and enjoy the remaining years of retirement? None of us can predict our future when it comes to health issues. We all know that exercise and proper diet can give us a better quality of life, and in many cases extend our lives. But the worry about burdening our loved ones or living a life of loneliness are issues that we can do something about right now!

Stay connected. Yes, stay involved. The most active seniors are the happiest people I know. Volunteering and joining organizations can give a sense of purpose and well being, as well as, providing a network of friends and cohorts who can be there for you when you need them most. By staying busy, illnesses are less frequent and overall health is improved.

Certified Senior Advisors (CSA) are available and ready to help organize your financial and health needs. A Certified Senior Advisor is trained to understand Medicare, Social Security, as well as, senior housing options. They can suggest ways to extend your finances, and prepare for the future so you are not left alone, or without means to deal with your individual health and financial needs. They can look at your fears and concerns, and turn them into strengths and assets. Fear is usually the result of lack of information. False Evidence Appearing Real is the description of fear. Get the best information out there!

Your home is typically your greatest asset. Is your home serving your needs, or is it a burden and restriction to enjoying your life to the utmost? Many times I will meet with my senior clients who have been in their homes for several years, and find that they are prisoners in their houses. Steps are difficult to traverse, laundry is in the basement, and maintenance is overwhelming. Look at your situation and ask yourself, 'is my home meeting my health and financial needs?' Once again, a Certified Senior Advisor or financial planner can give you the right perspective and provide options which will insure a positive and enjoyable retirement.

In conclusion, seek out professionals, and plan for your future. Information is the best answer to fears and concerns. Stay connected and build your network of friends who will be there to help when help is needed. The more friends you have, the greater the support you'll have when you may need it most.

Next month's article will deal with the question, 'What do you find most confusing about current senior housing options?'

By Bruce Nemovitz, Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist, Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce and his team can be reached at 262-242-6177 or email at: Bruce@BrucesTeam.com