I’m often kept awake at night trying to figure out how I can help a client who needs care but can’t afford it. There isn’t much beyond a MediCal (Medicaid in other states) bed in a skilled nursing facility. It’s not easy getting one of those beds unless you’ve been admitted to the hospital. That’s not a viable plan for your end of life.
It’s taking so long for young adults to get started in careers now that they can’t imagine saving for retirement. They’ve got student loans to pay off first. But there is not much sadder than a disabled elderly person with no money and no one willing to help them.
Families used to be able to live off one salary. That was before we had cell phones, internet, cable, Netflix, fast food, and Starbucks. Wonderful things but costs we did not have before.
The only way to save money is to spend less than you make.
In the middle of a discussion on his crushing debt, my physical therapist asked if I thought he should have Chinese or Mexican for lunch. I said, “a peanut butter sandwich that you brought from home.”