What Is Long Term Care?
Long term care is the care you may need if you are unable to perform daily activities on your own. These daily activities include feeding yourself, bathing, dressing, transferring and using the bathroom. Long Term Care is designed to allow you to maintain as much independence as you can as you age. Many people believe that Medicare, a Medicare supplement, or the health insurance from an employer will pay for long term care but that’s not the case.
Why would you need Long Term Care?
Long Term Care may be needed for a number of reasons but the most common are aging, stroke, illness, accidents/falls, and chronic conditions. Memory Care centers continue to be a growing need for the populations. Cognitive illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia are being diagnosed at higher rates. The advancements in care and technology are causing people to live longer than ever before, extending the need and likelihood of Long Term Care.
How Long Term Care Impacts Your Family
The need for long term care impacts the entire family, not just the person requiring care. For example, if your son or daughter is taking care of you, it may bring you closer together in some way. But providing that care can be time-consuming, stressful, or exhausting for a caregiver. It also takes them away from their own obligations including their children, their spouses, and their job.
Types Of Long Term Care Settings
- In Home Care Options
- Home Health Aide Services
- Adult Day Health Care
- Assisted Living Facility
- Nursing Home
Assist with cooking, cleaning, and running errands. Typically does not provide any type of health care. |
Hands On Care, assist with bathing, dressing, eating, and medication, etc. |
Provide individuals with support in a community setting. Members are able to take advantage of planned social activities under the supervision of caregivers. Many Adult Day Care facilities also provide transportation, medical services, personal care and meals. |
This type of care should not be confused with a nursing home. Assisted Living Facilities provide personal care and health services but these take place in a residential setting. Individuals choosing this type of care do not require 24/7 monitoring and have more independence within the facility because most are able to perform the several daily functions. |
Nursing Homes are facilities that provide the highest level of Long Term Care for those that require round-the-clock supervision. Most need help with a majority of daily activities. All care is provided on-site, 24 hours a day. Nearly all Nursing Home facilities provide personal care, lodging, medical services, therapy, rehabilitation and activities. |
Planning For Long Term Care
Understanding Medicare In Retirement
Medicare is one of the most important decisions you will make in retirement.
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