Free seminar in Burnet to help Highland Lakes residents prepare for long-term care
JENNIFER FIERRO • PICAYUNE STAFF
BURNET — It might be unpleasant, but it’s never too early to begin preparing for long-term care.
And to help people of the Highland Lakes, a free seminar on that topic is 11:30 a.m. March 23 at First Lutheran Church, 133 Apollo Drive. Sandwiches will be served.
“Planning today provides you with more choice and flexibility for the future,” said Cathleen Knippa Wenger, Thrievent Financial consultant and presenter. “Postponing uncomfortable discussions makes us feel better now but rarely leads to the long-term outcomes that we desire.”
The presentation will help families prepare emotionally, physically and financially.
That means learning what exactly long-term care is and is not, where it’s provided, trends in cost and care, and ways to pay, Wenger said.
Though the target audience is ages 50-62, Wenger said the presentation is for anyone who has an interest in knowing what options exist for them.
“Unfortunately, we frequently meet with people who have put off these discussions and decisions to a time when there are no longer good options available to them,” she said. “Sadly, the greatest regret we see for those who have waited too long is a negative impact on their loved ones.”
Email Terrie L. Jordahl at Terrie.Jordahl@thrivent.com by March 21 to reserve a seat.
“Having a strategy in place gives your family the opportunity to care about you rather than care for you,” Wenger said. “Family members will usually do whatever they have to in order to take care of someone they love, but it often comes at a high personal cost.”
jfierro@thepicayune.com