SRES • August 27, 2024

Work with a SRES Realtor

by Megan Bell

Reasons to Work with SRES

SRES • July 28, 2024

Age in Place Important Documents

by Megan Bell

Legal and Medical Documents for Aging in Place

Aging in place involves careful planning, and having the right legal and medical documents is crucial. Here’s a straightforward guide to essential documents you might need:

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order

Purpose: Indicates that you do not want CPR if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
How to Obtain: Discuss with your doctor, have it signed by both you and your physician. Keep copies at home and with your healthcare proxy.

Durable Power of Attorney (POA) for Healthcare

Purpose: Designates a trusted person to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot.
How to Obtain: Work with an attorney to draft this document. Ensure the designated person understands your wishes.

Living Will

Purpose: Provides instructions about the types of medical treatment you want or do not want if you are seriously ill and unable to communicate.
How to Obtain: Created with an attorney’s help or through state-provided forms.

Durable Power of Attorney (POA) for Finances

Purpose: Authorizes someone to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated.
How to Obtain: An attorney can help draft this document to meet your state’s requirements.

Advance Healthcare Directive

Purpose: Combines the living will and durable power of attorney for healthcare into one document.
How to Obtain: Can be created with an attorney or by using state-specific forms.

HIPAA Authorization

Purpose: Allows your designated healthcare proxy to access your medical records and communicate with your healthcare providers.
How to Obtain: Forms are available from your healthcare provider or attorney.

POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)

Purpose: Outlines a plan of care reflecting your wishes concerning end-of-life treatments.
How to Obtain: Completed with your physician and kept accessible at home.

Will or Trust

Purpose: Specifies how your assets should be distributed after your death and helps manage your estate.
How to Obtain: Consult an attorney to draft a will or set up a trust.

For a smooth transition and to support your needs for a safe and comfortable living environment, contact Megan Bell, Realtor® SRES. She specializes in helping seniors with their housing needs.

SRES • July 28, 2024

Age in Place Tips

by Megan Bell

Age in Place

This refers to enabling older adults to live in their own homes and communities safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.

Home Modification and Maintenance Services

Home Repair Programs:

Assistance for necessary home repairs or modifications.

Accessibility Modifications:

Installation of ramps, grab bars, and other features to improve home safety and accessibility.

In-Home Care Services

Home Health Care:

Skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and medical services provided at home.

Personal Care Assistance: Help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation.

Transportation Services

Senior Transportation Programs: Rides for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other essential trips.

Public Transit Options: Discounted or specialized services for seniors.

Community and Social Services

Senior Centers: Locations offering social, recreational, and educational activities.

Community Programs: Activities and support groups tailored to seniors.

Financial and Legal Assistance

Financial Counseling: Advice on managing finances, including budgeting and accessing benefits.

Legal Assistance: Help with legal matters such as wills, estates, and elder rights.

Health and Wellness Services

Fitness Programs: Exercise classes and programs designed for older adults.

Health Screenings: Regular check-ups and preventive health services.

Technology Assistance

Tech Support for Seniors: Help with using computers, smartphones, and other devices.

Emergency Response Systems: Devices that allow seniors to call for help in emergencies.

Local Organizations and Contacts

SourcePoint: An organization that provides services and support for older adults in Delaware County, which includes Powell. They offer a range of services from care management to home-delivered meals.
Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging (COAAA): Provides resources and support for seniors and caregivers in the region.

Ready to embark on your age in place journey? Let Megan help you make the transition seamless and stress-free. Contact Megan Bell, Realtor® SRES, today for personalized guidance and support every step of the way!

SRES • July 28, 2024

Downsizing Tips

by Megan Bell

Empowering You to Simplify and Thrive

Embarking on the journey of downsizing your home can feel like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a liberating experience that opens doors to new possibilities. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with ease:

Assess Your Needs: Begin by evaluating your current living situation and determining what you truly need and cherish. Consider your lifestyle, future plans, and space requirements to identify items that are essential and those that can be let go.

Declutter with Purpose: Take a systematic approach to decluttering each room, starting with less emotionally charged areas like storage spaces and gradually working your way to more sentimental areas like family rooms and bedrooms. Sort items into categories: keep, donate/sell, recycle, and discard.

Organize Efficiently: Invest in storage solutions that maximize space utilization and enhance organization. Utilize vertical space with shelving units, utilize under-bed storage containers, and consider multi-functional furniture pieces to optimize every inch of your new, downsized home.

Sell or Donate Unneeded Items: Turn your unwanted belongings into cash by selling them through online marketplaces, hosting a garage sale, or consigning them to local shops. Alternatively, donate items to charities or shelters to give them a second life and make a positive impact in your community.

Preserve Sentimental Items: While downsizing may require parting ways with some possessions, it’s essential to preserve items that hold sentimental value. Consider digitizing photos and documents, or gifting cherished heirlooms to loved ones to ensure their legacy lives on.

Prepare Your Home for Sale: Once you’ve decluttered and organized your space, it’s time to prepare your home for sale. Deep clean each room, make any necessary repairs or upgrades, and stage your home to highlight its best features and create an inviting atmosphere for potential buyers.

Ready to embark on your downsizing journey? Let us help you make the transition seamless and stress-free. Contact Megan Bell, Realtor® SRES, today for personalized guidance and support every step of the way!