Aged Care Financial Planning: When to Start and What to Consider
When it comes to preparing for aged care, either for yourself or a loved one, understanding when to start the financial planning process and knowing what to consider is crucial. Financial planning for aged care is not merely about covering costs; it’s about ensuring a comfortable and dignified experience without undue financial strain on yourself or your family. No matter what age you’re at, it’s never too early to start planning for the future – here is your guide to the timings and considerations essential for effective aged care financial planning.
The Right Time to Start Your Aged Care Financial Plan
Ideally, financial planning for aged care should begin well before the need arises. While different circumstances require different planning and timing, five to ten years in advance is sufficient for most Australians. This timeframe allows for a thorough assessment of potential costs and the exploration of various funding options. Early planning also provides an opportunity to maximise the benefits of compounding interest on savings and investments specifically set aside for aged care needs.
Moreover, early planning can significantly reduce the emotional and financial stress that often accompanies last-minute decisions. It ensures that all financial decisions can be made rationally and without the pressure of an immediate need, which can lead to more thoughtful and cost-effective choices.
Key Financial Factors to Consider
When planning for aged care, several financial factors need careful consideration. First is the likely costs of different types of care, including in-home support, residential aged care facilities, and specialised dementia care. Understanding these costs helps in selecting the appropriate type of care and estimating the necessary budget.
Secondly, consider your current assets and income streams. This includes not only savings and investments but also ongoing income sources such as pensions and annuities. It’s essential to forecast future income and asset values to plan effectively. Additionally, consider potential eligibility for government assistance through programmes like the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or residential care subsidies, which can significantly offset costs.
Navigating Legal and Estate Planning
Another crucial aspect of preparing for aged care is understanding the legal implications, particularly around power of attorney and guardianship. Setting up these legal frameworks ensures that someone trusted can make decisions if you or a loved one are no longer able to do so. Estate planning also plays a vital role, as it involves organising assets and wills to ensure that your wishes are carried out and that there is a smooth transition of assets to beneficiaries, which can also include provisions for covering ongoing aged care costs. For more on this check out our article “Wills + Power of Attorney”
Consulting Aged Care Financial Advice Professionals
Given the complexities involved in aged care financial planning, consulting with professionals who specialise in aged care financial advice is the way to go, particularly the Aged Care Financial Advice team at Priority Advisory Group. We offer tailored advice solutions relevant to your personal circumstances (or those of a loved one) and help you navigate the maze of options, providers, Government assistance, and more. We can also assist in the application processes concerning entry into aged care and government support, and restructuring assets to maximise financial benefits and minimise risks.
Aged Care Financial Advice Case Study: Lena & Feliks
Having specialists in your corner makes a massive difference. Our team was engaged recently by Lena, whose father Feliks had been living with her and her family, until his care needs became too great for them to manage on their own. The fact that Feliks is not an Australian citizen or permanent resident (and therefore unable to receive Centrelink benefits) added a layer of complexity to the situation and impacted the aged care options available to him. When our engagement commenced, our Head of Aged Care Dan Clarke (with the support of our team) were able to negotiate directly with an aged care facility, developed a strategy that reduced the financial burden on Lena’s family, and ultimately placed Feliks in a facility where he enjoys amazing care and loves his family’s visits.
Starting Your Aged Care Financial Plan
While the prospect of planning for aged care might seem daunting, early and thoughtful preparation can ease the transition considerably. By understanding when to start planning, what financial, legal, and professional resources to consider, and how to utilise them effectively, you can secure not just financial stability but also peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. To find out more about how we can assist with Aged Care Financial Advice in Sydney, throughout NSW, and beyond, you can contact us via our website or on 1300 349 188.
Please note the information provided within this article is general of nature and is not a personal advice recommendation. Prior to considering strategies discussed in this article we recommend you seek personal financial advice. Please be aware that, without the benefit of financial advice, you may be committing yourself to financial strategies or products that are not appropriate for your overall personal situation, needs and objectives.