To everything, there is a season...

Seasons change, people change, everything changes. In fact, the only constant in this world is change. As cliche' as that may sound, it's so very true. But, as much as we know that change is going to come, we still delay to plan for that aforementioned change. When I look back over the countless times I planned - to make a plan - to do something and forgot, it makes my head spin.

As hard as it is to believe, writing down the "to-dos" really does help. Writing could mean literally grabbing a post-it note and writing or recording a task in your phone. Sounds easy right? Well it is! But, it's even easier to forget.

I'm here today to stand on my soapbox and say don't forget to plan for your own long term care needs while you're researching and contemplating the plan for your Mom, Dad or Spouse. It's much easier to get all your proverbial ducks in a row while your mental capacity is still intact. So, take advantage of this Season of clarity that you're enjoying now, because change is going to come. Please do it now!

Not sure what I mean? Here's a great place to get started:

1. Get a Life Insurance Policy - If you have one that you haven't reviewed in over a year, find it and review it ASAP. Maybe your beneficiary needs to be updated or maybe you'd like to leave more money behind for your loved ones and your final expenses.

2. Write a Living Will or Advance Directive - What are your extension of life or end of life wishes? If you don't know that answer, please take a little time, make this decision and then write it down. If your health declined and you weren't able to make this decision, your leaving the burden on your family to do it. Many states have forms online for free that can be downloaded, signed then notarized. Or, you can pay an attorney to draw these forms up for you.

3. Pre-Pay your Funeral Arrangements - Yes, we mentioned purchasing life insurance already, which is usually used for the funeral and burial expenses. However, if you pre-pay your funeral arrangements, not only will you have your final farewell planned exactly like you would want, but it will be already paid for at end of life. Which leaves your life insurance policy pay-out amount for long term care needs (if you were to need long term care, you could borrow from your life insurance) or the monies would be received by your beneficiary, possibly creating the start of the generational wealth method in your family.

Again, this is a great place to get started. Now buckle up and get ready, we've got more information coming your way.

Korene-