
Find the kind of senior care you need, from in-home care providers to live-in facilities.
Find professional advisors who can help you make the best decisions about senior care.
Find goods & services which make a senior's life
safer and yours less stressful.
Long-term care includes a number of services, both medical and non-medical, provided to people with a chronic illness or disability. It is designed to assist people perform their activities of daily living (ADL's) like eating, bathing and dressing and provide comprehensive medical care. Services are available in the home or in a care facility like an assisted living or nursing home.
Choosing a long-term care option can be a daunting task. There are many factors to weigh and planning should be done before the care is needed. The goal is to ensure the highest level of independence for the patient while ensuring all their needs are met.
Community based care and home health services allow the patient to stay in their home while receiving assistance. Community services include programs like Meals-on-Wheels, transportation to appointments, adult day care, and senior centers. Home health services are available for all ADL's as well as skilled nursing care. Home care agencies can also provide durable medical equipment if needed.
Assisted living facilities provide help with ADL's and transportation to appointments. Most offer a wide range of activities and many have amenities like small storesand beauty parlors. Some also provide nursing services like medication administration and minor wound care. Assisted living facilities are typically private pay and can be very expensive depending on the type of services a patient needs.
Nursing homes provide care for people who are unable to care for themselves at home.They provide total care and medical services if the patient needs them. Most have skilled care available after an injury or hospital stay. Medicare covers skilled nursing services for a limited time. Stays extending beyond the limit are paid for by the client or private health insurance.
It is important to look into all the options before making a choice. Consider the least restrictive level of care first but have a plan in place in case additional services become necessary. Tour facilities before selecting one and have a list of questions ready to make sure the facility meets the patient's needs.
Specialists in Health, Life and Long-Term Care Insurance for protecting you, and giving you peace of mind. LEARN MORE>