Long Term Care Service Providers
Long Term Care Services continue to adapt to our ever-changing needs. There are now many ways to receive help when care or assistance is necessary.
Availability
Advances in medical technology and changes in our lifestyle have resulted in Americans living longer and healthier lives than prior generations. A longer life span also means we are more likely to need some form of assistance with toileting, transferring, continence, bathing, dressing, eating, etc. (referred to as Activies of Daily Living, ADLs).
The American health care system offers a wide range of care services for those who develop a long term illness or disability. These services often begin with care at home, followed by a range of care facilities, such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Long term care services are available in most communities, and the quality and variety of care providers is increasing. Today, most long term care services are provided in the individual's home; at an adult day care center; or in an assisted living facility. Surprisingly, the majority of long term care services are not provided in a nursing home. Due to the increasing popularity of home care and assisted living care, the number of Americans in nursing homes has actually declined in some areas of the country. "Long Term Care, Your Financial Planning Guide," P. Shelton, 2001
Types of Long Term Care
The severity of illness or disability, and how long you are unable to care for yourself determine the type of long term care needed:
Custodial Care - this is the most common type of LTC. Patients need some assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), but they do not need the services of a doctor or nurse on a daily basis. This type of care is often for a long period of time and results in significant expense. Common conditions resulting in the need for Custodial Care are:
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Injuries from auto or sporting accidents
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Chronic arthritis
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Osteoporosis
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Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments
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Parkinson's
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Fractured hip
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Multiple Sclerosis
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Results of a stroke
Skilled Care - This type of care is usually less frequent and for shorter duration. Skilled care requires the services of skilled medical personnel (doctors, nurses, or therapists). Common conditions that result in the need for Skilled Care are:
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Post-surgery care
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Administration of special medications/IV's
Where are LTC Services Provided?
Today, fewer people are having to seek care in a nursing home. "Long Term Care, Your Fnancial Planning Guide," P. Shelton, 2001. You can receive needed care in a variety of alternative settings, such as your own home, assisted living facilities, and adult day care centers.
The basic issue of Long Term Care is NOT the availability of care, but the actual cost. Neither traditional health insurance nor Medicare was designed to pay for most long term care services...and the need for long-term care can last for years. Unanticipated expenses can negatively impact the quality of your life and your financial security, especially during retirement.