Financial and legal matters for seniors

People often overlook health care costs when planning for retirement. At 40, we take health for granted; travel plans and leisure activities are top of mind. This is why it’s important to put together a financial plan that includes basic living and lifestyle expenses and also outlines risks. A certified financial planner can help prepare a realistic plan to meet individual needs.

An overall retirement plan must cover basic living expenses such as shelter, food, heat, clothing, and transportation; lifestyle expenses such as golf fees, cottage maintenance and travel; and capital expenses or income such as a new car or selling your home.

Older adults may be more vulnerable to abuse and neglect, but there are ways to prevent it. If you are being abused or neglected, or if you know or suspect that someone else is being subjected to abuse, neglect, or self-neglect, learn how you can get help

Making financial decisions, investments, donations, and purchases can be complex enough, without worrying that someone is trying to take advantage of you.

Learn how to protect yourself your finances and avoid scams and frauds.

Understand the necessary legal agreements to arrange your affairs in the case of your illness or death. There are certain instances in which you may choose to appoint a substitute decision-maker, such as a power of attorney for financial decisions.

Making a will is an important part of planning for your family’s future.

Learn more about wills and estate planning.

The following resources provide more information on financial and legal matters:

• HealthLink BC: Financial and legal matters
• Healthy Families BC: Seniors and financial planning
• Seniors First BC: Responding to financial exploitation