Reflecting and Planning with Seniors in Nashville

The end of the year is a natural time to reflect on everything we’ve achieved over the past year and look ahead to what we’re planning for the future.

That year-end planning can cause stress for seniors, though, especially if they’re worried about their health or other changes. However, with a little planning, it’s easy to turn a talk about the future into an opportunity to connect and celebrate the great year you’ve had. 

There are plenty of resources to make planning with seniors in Nashville not just easy, but fun. Here are a few of our favorites.

Resources for Reflecting and Planning with Seniors in Nashville

The key to making your year-end reflection fun and productive is the right mindset and preparation. These steps will keep your time together lighthearted and focused so you can move forward into the new year as a team.

Start with the right questions.

It’s important to go in with a plan. Before you get together, decide on a few questions to get the ball rolling. These can include things like, “What are you looking forward to this year?” and “Is there anything you wish we did more of?”

If you’re struggling to think of the right questions, try picking up a book of journaling prompts at a local bookstore like Landmark Booksellers. You can even share the questions with your loved one ahead of time so they can think through their answers.

Pick a meeting spot.

While you don’t need to go somewhere specific for your reflection and planning, getting out of your regular routine can help a lot. Especially if you’re a family caregiver, it may be hard to focus while you’re in your loved one’s home. Consider heading to a local café or booking a meeting room where you can spread out. You can reserve a study room for free at the Brentwood Library.

Make plans they’re excited about.

One of the most important questions you can ask your loved one and yourself is, “What are you looking forward to?”

Having plans we’re eagerly anticipating is vital for mental wellbeing. In addition to combatting anxiety and depression, it can even be easier to face our fears when we have plans we’re looking forward to afterward.

Together, write a list of things you both want to do in the new year. If you need ideas, check out the events calendar at FiftyForward for day trips, classes and more.

Get help from a professional.

You don’t need to plan for the future alone. If you don’t already know your loved one’s wishes for the future, this can be a great time to suggest you speak to an estate planning professional together. They can help your loved one get all of the paperwork in place to ensure their wishes are followed, whether that’s a living will, power of attorney or a will.

Support Their Goals with a Professional Caregiver

Whatever you’re looking forward to in the new year, a professional caregiver can help. Whether it’s transportation to a class or an exercise partner, caregivers make it possible for seniors to enjoy the activities that make their lives meaningful.

Not sure what kind of care they need? We’ll walk you through all of your options and recommend the best plan to help both you and your loved one meet your goals this year. Contact us today to learn more.