Living on Social Security Checks
If you are helping to care for your elderly loved one, it is helpful to know what they are living with. For example, most elderly adults are only living on their Social Security checks. They aren’t working and don’t have any other source of income. This can make things tough for them. However, you can help them to stay living at home while managing their money at the same time.
Doing the Math
One of the most helpful things you can do for your elderly loved one, if they are only living on their Social Security check, is to help them with the math in their budget. They will start with their income (this is whatever amount their Social Security is at the time). From there, you can help them to make a list of all the expenses they currently have. Write down the necessary expenses such as medical and food. From there, write down the things they want, but don’t have to pay for such as cable. See what they can afford and what they might need to cut back on. If you don’t have the time to do this, your loved one’s home care providers may be able to help.
Being Flexible
You can also help your elderly loved one to be more flexible. As previously mentioned, there are needed expenses such as their housing, food, medical expenses, and transportation if they need to go anywhere. If your loved one is living in a home that is too expensive, they might want to consider moving to a more affordable home or apartment.
Enjoying Life
It is important that your elderly loved one enjoys their life. They have worked hard their entire life and they deserve to rest and relax. They shouldn’t have to stress about everything in their elderly years. You can take them to free community events or you can sign them up for free or low-cost classes. Maybe they can join a free fitness class. Your elderly loved one needs downtime, but they also may still want to get out and do things. Ask them what they are interested in and work with them on making sure that happens.
These are some of the tips you can use to help your loved one who is only living on a Social Security check. While it may be tough for many people, if you help your elderly loved one to balance out their income and expenses, help them to be flexible, and help them find ways to enjoy their life, things can be made easier for them.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Senior Care in Clark County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care.
Call Us Today at (703) 634-9991.
Sources
Moneysmart.gov.au
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