My husband and I are exploring care options as we plan for our future. We’re approaching our 70s and are having difficulty wrapping our minds around the terminology. We prefer to remain home and are willing to hire help should we need it. A good friend of ours recently had his knee replaced. After surgery, he received care in his home. A nurse looked after him, a caregiver helped give him a shower, and he had therapists work with him in his own living room. We were surprised to learn that this was all covered by Medicare. Yet, as my husband reviewed our Medicare benefits, it seems like Medicare will not cover home care should we need help as we age.

I celebrated my 70th birthday this year. Leading up to it, I’ve taken drastic steps to get my health back on track. I’ve lost over 40 pounds this year. I exercise regularly. I no longer need to take my blood pressure medication and have reduced my risk for type 2 diabetes. I feel amazing, even at my age. However, I’m concerned about the holiday season sabotaging my healthy lifestyle.

It has been a long-standing tradition that we all gather for Christmas dinner. Last year, we forwent this tradition considering the COVID pandemic. This year, however, many are planning to participate. My elderly parents have hosted Christmas dinner for this group since my siblings and I moved out of their home as adults. As I was helping my mom make plans for Christmas, I sensed she was feeling stressed and anxious.