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Snowbirds: Ensuring Peace of Mind at Home & Away

Older couple (snowbirds) driving to Florida Tis the season – nearly – when many people pack the car and head south. Being a snowbird is a retirement dream for many who may have elderly parents or loved ones back at home who need help. So, it would be best if you had a plan on managing from a distance, and you may need snow boots on the ground here, too. The snowbirds and their elderly loved ones can prepare for the months of distance and ensure there are support plans in place should they be needed.

What Snowbirds Should Consider

Here is how you can give yourself and your elderly loved ones peace of mind while away.

  1. Is someone looking in on Mom and Dad? Who is shovelling the walk and driveway? How are they getting groceries? Is anyone attending medical appointments with them? Do they have an emergency plan in writing? Who is the first contact?
  2. How is YOUR health? Do you have the proper insurance to cover unexpected injuries or medical events? Do your loved ones or attorneys at home know what they need to know about emergency medical situations and personal affairs? Could they quickly intervene on your behalf? Do they understand your wishes?

How Snowbirds Can Prepare

  1. Leave a copy of your Blue Binder (see the Smart Ageing Audit article at the top of the newsletter) with your attorney or other loved ones.
  2. Take a copy of your elderly parents’ Blue Binder with you; we provide them in digital format.
  3. Meet with the trusted circle of care or support team you’ve built around your parents or that they’ve built for themselves.
  4. Pack your flip-flops and SPF, and don’t forget to write!

Are You Staying Behind?

Ask your snowbirds for a printed list of where they are and how to reach them.

  1. Give them a digital copy of your Blue Binder.
  2. Write down the names, numbers, and roles of your trusted circle of care and support team while your snowbirds are away.
  3. Invite people over regularly for company and help.

You may also be interested in:

Tried and True Tips for Caring for Elderly Parents Over a Long Distance

Snowbirds, Know What Happens If You Die Outside of Canada

A Guide to Vaccines for Older Canadians

Travel Tips for Snowbirds Returning to Canada from the Canada Border Services Agency, March 2023.