by Celia Love

Created on: April 29, 2008

Senior Citizens can be faced with a myriad of problems, challenges and hurdles , the decisions made in dealing with these things can effect their daily lives.

We as a society, have learned to plan ahead, affecting different strategies to deal with these issues to lessen the effect. We have developed various methods: Ira's, Savings, Cd's, Insurance, Stock Investments, Pensions, or contingency plans for lack their of, etc. are just some of the vehicles used to achieve financial security for "The Golden Years".

Looking at Social Security from the view point of being 20 years away from retirement is scary in itself, not knowing for sure that it will still be in existence, and if it is, will it be enough? Dealing with these issues in your way of life is a whole other world.

Different people have different issues and ways of dealing with them and therefore will not have the same goals. Illness, whether it be chronic or sudden, limitations and complications of them are often primary problems faced by seniors. Dealing with Medicare, Medicaid, HMO's, etc. in declining health with pre-existing conditions that are treated with expensive prescriptions is a harsh reality for many. Acquiring supplemental insurance privately or through Government Programs can ease the strain for some and are vital for others.

Being able to stay in your home has its own set of issues: finances, homecare, accessibility, and physical viability are all factors in this equation. Having a plan in place to deal with the age old question of what to do when a Nursing Home is the only option is essential.

Asset protection, liquidation, division of property, wills, and estates are issues for some, while for others, it is just a matter of survival. I personally know many people who are still working 10, 15 and 20 years past retirement age because they just can't afford to retire.

There are many Government, State and Local programs available for a wide range of things with their own restrictions and eligibility requirements, knowing this information is vital.

Stories of Senior Citizens having to make decisions like pay rent or eat, or pay utilities or pay for prescriptions, or living on a bare bones food budget which have led some to unhealthy and unthinkable diets is beyond sad and wrong and should not be happening.

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