Long-term care is an important topic for people to learn about sooner rather than later. At some point, they or a loved one will probably need it. And, when this happens, they’ll have to play catch up … and there’s a lot of information to digest.
By becoming familiar with long-term care now and understanding what types of care services are available, you’ll be able to tackle any problems directly and can start planning if long-term care becomes necessary.
What is Long-Term Care?
Long-term care can be defined as both medical and non-medical services being provided to individuals — specifically older adults in this case — who need extensive care assistance for long periods of time.
This care, which can be in home or in a facility, focuses on helping individuals maintain their lifestyle as they age, no matter what their health needs are. Because there are so many different circumstances with individuals, there’s not one specific or universal long-term care plan. They should be tailored to each individual and should alter with time depending on how care needs progress or regress.
Who Will Use Long-Term Care Services?
The 65+ age group is growing significantly, and many of them will be expected to need some type of long-term care if they aren’t receiving or planning for it already.
Older adults who are more likely to use long-term care services include:
- Those developing cognitive impairment
- Those who have limited mobility or significant physical disabilities
- Those who aren’t able to conduct simple every day activities or routines
- Those who live alone, or have chronic conditions from poor lifestyle and health choices
Types of Long-Term Care
In-Home Care
In-home care includes assistance and support with both personal and health needs. Older adults who choose this option can get hands-on help from caregivers and home health aides with the things they may not be able to do due to limitations with mobility, minor cognitive issues, and more from the comfort of their home.
This type of care is great for older adults that want to age in place or know that they don’t need as much help as those at facilities do.
Facilities
At facilities, you can expect to receive both higher levels of specialized care, and more general care. This means that no matter if a person needs significant rehabilitation following a severe accident or surgery, or needs constant supervision due to cognitive impairment, they will be able to get this level of care at a facility.
Because facilities can differ in costs based on care needs and length of stay, you’ll want to research various options beforehand.
Care Community Options
In community-based settings, older adults have the opportunity to age in place with others around whom they can socialize and build relationships. They can still receive assistance for their health needs, and additional support as those needs change.
Care community options have various costs and requirements involved including things like buy-ins, monthly rent, etc. If you choose this option, you also might have to pay for amenities, services, and more. It’s important to do your research beforehand if you are thinking about choosing a care community as part of your long-term care plan.
How Do I Start Planning for Long-Term Care?
Even if you don’t need long-term care services right now, it’s important to start thinking about and planning for the future. Consider the follow while creating plans:
- What options will be available depending on my current health needs?
- What are the costs of long-term care? Do I have insurance or assistance for services?
- Do I have an idea when it will be time for you to utilize long-term care? What signs will I and my loved ones be looking for?
- Am I ready to create any wills, estate planning, or my medical wishes?
Additional Resources
Start Planning Earlier for Long-Term Care
Understanding Long-Term Care Insurance
Resources for Long-Term Care
