HEALTH

Creating a Plan for Long-term Care

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Planning for the future is incredibly important yet many people put off doing so for long-term care. The numbers tell us that a majority of people over the age of 65 will require some form of long-term care so it is important to at least start thinking about it. This guide examines some of the steps you should take when planning for it.

Assess Your Future Needs

Planning for long-term care starts with assessing whether you will need it in the future. Start by looking at whether there is a likelihood that you will develop a health condition that might necessitate it. Next, see if there is a way to get the aid you might need if you require long-term care. There are different options here, and what you ultimately choose will depend on your needs.

Once you know what your future needs are likely to be, you need to determine the type of care you will need and how much it will cost. Both pieces of information will help you plan much more effectively, and ensure you are not caught off-guard when the need for long-term care arises.

Understand the Options Available

There are numerous options to choose from depending on your needs and preferences. For those who prefer to continue living at home, there are at-home services that include hiring an aide or a skilled nurse to provide the care you will need.

Nursing homes are another popular option. Nursing homes provide their residents with accommodation as well as healthcare. They employ experienced and skilled healthcare professionals to take care of their residents who have medical needs that do not require a hospital but that cannot be taken care of in a home.

Assisted living facilities provide ongoing care as well as help with daily tasks such as showering and dressing. They are suited for seniors who require some help, but who still want their independence. It has become much easier to find senior care facilities near you in recent years, with great amenities, activities, and communities.

There are also senior care facilities that provide care for those seniors with dementia including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. They hire highly skilled and experienced professionals to provide the special care their residents need.

Explore Funding Options

Senior care is not a trivial expense and so you should be prepared by knowing which funding options are available. Some people choose to pay out of pocket, with long-term care insurance and Medicaid being alternative options.

If you decide that self-funding is the best option for you, it is best to start putting together the resources you will need. When doing so, keep in mind the type of care and options that are best for you.

Talk to Your Loved One

Talking to loved ones is especially important if you will be living away from home in a senior care facility. Talk to them about your decision and see if there is a way they can help, especially with advice for better options and funding.

Planning for long-term care as early as possible and before you need it is always best. Doing so will require assessment and research, and you will get options that align with what you will need in the future.

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