Contributed by: Sandra Adams, CFP®
For many retirees, the dream of wintering in warmer climates becomes a reality—trading Midwest snow for sunshine, golf, and year-round activity. These "snowbird" years often bring joy, vitality, and a sense of freedom. But as time passes and health needs evolve, a quiet shift begins: the desire to be closer to family.
We often see this transition occur with clients as they age – there is no "trigger" age; it depends on each client's situation. The appeal of independence and warm weather starts to give way to deeper priorities—being near children and grandchildren, needing help with medical appointments, and feeling supported as aging progresses.
This decision isn't just emotional—it's financial and logistical. Selling a second home, relocating medical care, and adjusting estate plans all require thoughtful coordination. It's also a time to revisit long-term care strategies, update legal documents, and ensure proximity to trusted professionals.
If you or a loved one are considering this move, here are a few planning tips:
Start early: Give yourself time to explore housing options near family and understand local resources.
Review your financial plan: Consider the impact of selling property, changing residency, and potential care costs.
Discuss with family: Open conversations can ease transitions and clarify expectations.
Update your documents: Ensure your healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and estate plans reflect your new location and support system.
Coming home can be the best move for your next chapter—one rooted in connection, care, and legacy. If this is something you are considering, we are here to help you navigate it with clarity and confidence. Please reach out Sandy.Adams@CenterFinPlan.com/
Sandra Adams, CFP®, is a Partner and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional at Center for Financial Planning, Inc.® and holds a CeFT™ designation. She specializes in Elder Care Financial Planning and serves as a trusted source for national publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Research Magazine, and Journal of Financial Planning.
The foregoing information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision, and it does not constitute a recommendation. Any opinions are those of Sandy Adams, CFP® and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected.
Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Center for Financial Planning, Inc.
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