Cover story, continued ...
arts schools are more sharply focused on undergraduates. Universities are larger and comprise many different colleges for specific fields of study, including liberal arts colleges themselves. Universities also cater to graduate students as much as undergrads.
school rankings would be a lot different than an aspiring engineer.
Despite your best wishes, your child won’t just be at school to study. They’ll be living there, and it’s essential that they enjoy it. Even if a student loves their classes, they’ll be miserable if they don’t partake in the college’s culture and environment. Some schools are known for their school pride and athletic departments. Others are known for their arts programs. Some are in the middle of nowhere. Others are in the midst of bustling cities. You get the picture. Don’t overlook these characteristics when thinking about what’s the best fit for your child.
DO: TALK ABOUT FINANCIAL CONCERNS
Some parents are fortunate enough to allow their children to decide where to go to school free of financial considerations, but the vast majority are not. With student debt at an all- time high, there’s no point in ignoring the fact that college is expensive. Teens are notoriously imprudent when it comes to money — as any parent who’s been surprised by a massive Fortnite- related charge can attest to — so helping them understand this piece of the puzzle is extremely helpful. Guide them through the differences in costs and aid packages in ways that make sense to them. You may not be able to save them from student debt, but at least they’ll know what’s coming.
DON’T: SWEAT THE RANKINGS
Since its debut in 1983, U.S. News andWorld Report’s “America’s Best Colleges” report has been a source of aspiration and anxiety for high schoolers and their parents. While you should research any institution your child is considering, comparing rankings on the U.S. News list can do more harm than good. To a 17-year-old, being able to say you chose one of the “top 50” universities is a point of pride. In the grand scheme of things, though, it means very little. First off, it’s foolish to assume all schools are judged equally; it’s difficult to numerically rank universities with definitive accuracy. Second, nobody should choose a college in a vacuum. If your child wants to be a professional actor, their top
DO: LEAVE IT UP TO THEM
As much as Mom or Dad might know best, this decision ultimately belongs to your child. Inform and advise, but never hijack their choice. After all, you’re not the one attending.
DON’T: IGNORE SCHOOL CULTURE AND LOCATION
CREATING A HOME CARE PLAN To Live Your Best Retirement
When retirement approaches, you may be thinking about the freedom you’ll enjoy after putting in your last nine-to-five. It’s a culmination of years of hard work and a cause for celebration! Before you get to celebrate, though, it’s important to consider what kind of support you might need down the road. With our generation living longer than our parents, there’s a possibility that we may require additional support services. You and your spouse may not know if either of you will need in-home care, but considering this possibility and the financial factors that come with it can help you better enjoy this exciting phase of your life. In most cases, neither Medicare or Medicaid covers in-home care. There are some exceptions, like home- and community-based services that are state and locally funded and cover those who qualify through Medicaid. If you or your spouse are veterans and meet the requirements, you may be eligible for aid and attendance benefits. These benefits are paid for by the VA in addition to a veteran’s monthly pension. It may cover
the costs of in-home care for veterans who require the aid of another person or are housebound. Visit Benefits.va.gov to learn more.
Still, you may not want to rely on qualifying for one of these services. Consider adapting your estate plan to include designated in-home care. Meet with your attorney to review your living trust and see if it addresses a caregiver. Talk to your family members and loved ones about the possibility that you or your spouse may need this service. While a family member may offer to step into that role, consider how easily they will be able to carry it out. Even a part-time caregiver could provide you with support and make your family members feel like they are not doing it alone. Planning for the possibility that you may need in-home care services can help make your retirement even more enjoyable. Knowing you’ll have a close helping hand can ease your family’s worries and even strengthen your bond.
2 • risingsunphysicaltherapy.com
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