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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, October 29, 2015 | 18 T The challenges and solutions of growing old in Canada he Canadian population is growing old. This will have a ripple effect on seniors and family members, including children that care for them. Recent government gures show there are now more seniors aged 65 and older than children aged 15 and younger. The aging process is suddenly a major part of Canada's future. Scott McNabb, of Homewatch CareGivers, spoke in Oakville about the impact of aging. He is both knowledgeable and passionate about seniors' objectives to live well and independently. According to a Manulife survey completed in 2007, two-thirds of Canadians' major con- Dollars & Sense Guest Contributor Peter Watson cern about growing old is deteriorating physical health. Other signi cant concerns include losing independence, requiring long-term care or assisted living, running out of money and nally nbhtech.ca ComputeR RepaiR from $ 99 iphone RepaiR from 39 $ 1 houR SeRViCe! 3999 becoming a burden on their family. According to McNabb, it is not just the aging process but the things that happen as we age. Falling is a major risk and accounts for the majority of emergency hospital visits for seniors. Chronic illnesses can become a medical issue on the physical side and then there is the dreaded dementia. People's minds deteriorate as a function of age. At retirement age, very few people have mental issues. However, by age 90 half the population suffer from some form of dementia. If a senior with declining physical or mental health has a spouse to assist them, the concern should include the spouse caregiver who is also likely a senior who will face declining health because of the stress and responsibilities of caring for their loved one. It is recommended people approaching retirement age develop a plan. The three most important ingredients are nutrition, tness and maintaining a meaningful and engaged life. One creative idea made during the presentation was to develop a medical résumé. This will be helpful to ef ciently convey your medical status to a doctor and if others assume the responsibility to speak on your behalf. In anticipation of others speaking on your behalf, it is advisable to consult with your lawyer to make sure you have a power of attorney for property and a separate power of attorney for personal care. The aging process can be expensive, so a good foundation is to have suf cient cash ow that will allow you to afford extra expenses during your later years. Staying in the family home might be your objective but if you require the services of various people to assist you then there is a nancial cost. We suggest when you are reviewing your retirement cash ow projections you include additional costs that might occur depending on your medical or physical condition. Aging is part of the natural process. You need to have a plan and learn how to adapt to things that arise. As R.L. Stevenson said: "Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing a poor hand well." The goal of many is to have a long and happy life. We strongly recommend you arrange all your affairs so the dream of a long and happy life will be realized. -- Submitted by Peter Watson, MBA, CFP , R.F .P ., CIM, FCSI., Certi ed Financial Planner Dundas St. e., unit D10, oakville 905.257.1647 380 (@ Trafalgar rd., Canadian Tire Plaza) In Partnership With Present: Learn Spanish & French Location: Maple Grove United Church 905-334-7876 · info@unicasolutions.ca Raffles & Giveaways Monday, December 21, 2015 Film.ca Cinemas, 171 Speers Road, Oakville Doors Open & Private Reception: 9:00am Private Screening: 10:00am Proceeds Support: Nanny Angel Network Adults: movie, 2 raffle tickets, large pop & popcorn--$25 HST included Children 12 and under: movie, 2 raffle tickets, small pop & popcorn-- Meet Flower $20 HST included Pot Dee Everyone is welcome! Clown Tickets must be pre-ordered Tickets can be purchased: -In person at the OMDREB office located at 125 Navy Street, Oakville -By downloading a registration form at https:/ /www.omdreb.on.ca/download/fm/721 and e-mail to events@omdreb.on.ca, or fax to 905-844-6699 -By telephone, contacting Darth Vader at 905-844-6491 ext. 111 2376 Parkhaven Blvd, Oakville 2376 Parkhaven Blvd, Oakville · 905-257-5880 905-257-5880 maximekitchens.ca maximekitchens.ca