Dear Friend,

Dick Van Dyke recently celebrated his 99th birthday. Yes, you read that right—99 years old, and he’s still sharp, smiling, and full of life. But what makes this milestone even more incredible is the story behind it. Last month, his life was saved by his neighbors when a forest fire came dangerously close to his home. While the headlines might focus on the fire, there’s a deeper story here that applies to all of us.

We are living longer than ever before. Advances in medicine, better awareness of healthy living, and sheer resilience are helping people enjoy longer lives. But while Dick Van Dyke’s story is inspiring, it’s also a reminder: the unexpected can happen to any of us, and living longer is only a blessing if we’re prepared.

Think about it. How many people are truly ready for the challenges—and opportunities—of a longer life? Statistically, many of us will live well into our 80s and 90s. That’s wonderful, but it comes with realities that must be addressed. What happens when you live longer than your savings? When unexpected health crises arise? When the cost of care skyrockets, or a loved one is suddenly thrust into the role of caregiver?

The Hard Truth About Longevity

Living a long life doesn’t come cheap. Healthcare costs, inflation, and the need for more years of financial support can put a strain on even the best-laid plans. The average cost of long-term care now exceeds $100,000 a year. Social Security might cover a fraction of that, but what about the rest? Do you want to leave your family scrambling to figure it out?

And it’s not just about you. What kind of legacy do you want to leave? Not just financially, but emotionally and spiritually. The truth is, without a plan, your golden years can turn into a storm of stress—for you and the people you love.

Start Planning Now—It’s Never Too Late

Here’s the good news: preparing for a long and meaningful life doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It starts with a conversation and a strategy. At Bascom Law, we’ve dedicated our practice to helping families navigate these waters. Whether you’re thinking about how to protect your savings from being drained by long-term care costs, making sure your family doesn’t bear the burden of estate disputes, or simply making sure your wishes are honored, we’re here to help.

Our proven strategies help clients save more, protect what they’ve worked hard for, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing they have a plan in place. We specialize in guiding families through Crisis Medicaid Planning, trust and estate planning, and protecting assets from being consumed by the high cost of care.

Don’t Wait for the Fire to Come

When the forest fire threatened Dick Van Dyke’s home, he didn’t have time to prepare—it was his neighbors who saved him. But in your case, you have time. The fire hasn’t reached your doorstep yet, and that means you can act now to protect yourself and your family.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I have a plan for how I’ll pay for care if I need it?
  • Will my family know my wishes when I’m no longer able to make decisions?
  • Can I be certain that my assets won’t be depleted by nursing home costs?

If the answer is “no” or “I’m not sure,” let’s fix that. Planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to live life on their terms and leave behind a legacy of security and love.

Your Next Step

Here’s what I recommend: Call my office today to schedule a consultation. Let’s sit down and create a plan that ensures your later years are full of joy and peace, not fear and uncertainty. The consultation is completely confidential, and there’s no obligation.

I can’t promise you’ll live to 99, like Dick Van Dyke. But I can promise that with the right plan in place, you can enjoy every year—whether you’re 59, 79, or beyond—with confidence and security.

Don’t wait. The best time to plan for the future is today.

Call us at 770-285-5493 to book your consultation.

Here’s to a long, happy life—and the peace of mind that comes with being ready for it.

Sincerely and Thanks,

Mike

Mike Bascom

Bascom Law, PC

Estate Planning & Elder Law