Where Will You Live As You Age? Let’s Talk Strategy.
As we help folks think through major life decisions like buying or selling a home, I’ve been reflecting on something just as important: planning for where you’ll live and how you’ll get (and pay for) care as you age.
I recently read a solid, practical guide from Tayva Taylor at Alaska Law & Mediation that breaks this down in a way everyone should consider especially if you’re building a life (and legacy) here in Alaska. Planning for aging isn’t just about housing it’s about protection, choices, and peace of mind. That matters whether you’re planning for yourself or helping aging parents.
Here’s the gist of what she covers:
Where You Might Live as You Get Older
There are a few paths many families take and each comes with different financial and legal considerations:
- Staying in your own home as long as possible, tweaking it for comfort and safety.
- Independent living communities that give more support with less daily responsibility.
- Assisted-living or memory care facilities when help with daily tasks becomes necessary.
- Skilled nursing or continuing-care communities for more intensive medical needs.
Why This Isn’t Just a Housing Decision
The costs of long-term care can be staggering many nursing facilities cost thousands per month. Without thoughtful planning, long-term care expenses can quickly eat into a lifetime of savings. They also affect eligibility for programs like Medicaid, which has strict rules and look-back periods that can limit your options if you wait too long to get organized.
Documents You Really Need Before You or a Loved One Has a Crisis
One of the biggest takeaways is this:
If you wait until you need care to get important legal documents in place, it will be much harder and more expensive to protect your choices and your assets. Durable powers of attorney (financial and healthcare) are key tools you want before any sudden health change.
Bonus Insight You Might Not Expect
Some aging adults may qualify for programs like VA Aid & Attendance benefits, which can help with home care or assisted living if you plan ahead and understand eligibility rules.
If this is something that’s crossed your mind even a little I encourage you to give the full guide a read and start the conversation with someone who can help you plan ahead.
I also want to remind you that Tayva Taylor, who works with our office and brings great clarity around estate planning, elder law, and mediation, has built out a lot of helpful content around these topics. She’s a great resource if you’re thinking about aging, asset protection, or quality of life as you plan your next chapter.
We wanted to kick off this week with some exciting news!
This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.75-bath home in the Butte moved quickly and for good reason.
We just put it on the market this week and got it under contract real quick.
We’re working with Jeremy Millen on the other side great agent, great offer. Honestly, it was one of those offers where you don’t even need to counter. You just look at it, smile, and sign it. Those are always the best kinds.
I’m especially happy for my sellers. I helped them buy this home back in 2016, and now with the kids grown and gone, it was time for a new chapter. We got the home prepped, positioned it right, brought it to market and just like that, we’re under contract and set to close quickly.
That’s what happens when you prepare well and price it right.
If you missed Tatlow don’t worry. There are still strong options available.
Still Looking? Here Are More Opportunities
Whether you're buying, selling, or just planning ahead, now’s a great time to chat about your options — I’m here if you need a strategy that fits your goals!
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