Long-term care is provided by a caregiver based on a person’s needs. The care needs may be supported at home by family members or friends. Long-term assistance can also be provided in care facilities such as a nursing home and assisted living communities.

What is long-term care?

It is a wide range of personal care, health, and social services for people of all ages who may suffer from a chronic disease or long-lasting disability. These services may include community services such as adult daycare, meals, and transportation services.

Who needs long-term care?

• Individuals with disability or limited mobility
• A person who suffers with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes
• Someone who suffered a health event such as injury or stroke

What is the most common type of long-term care?

The most common type of long-term care is to help with everyday activities. Activities may include eating, dressing, bathing, using the toilet, and mobility, e.g. getting in and out of bed.

What type of services and support might be available with long-term care?

• Housework and or meal preparation
• Bathing and dressing
• Medication management
• Responding to medical emergencies
• Shopping services
• Occupational or Physical therapy

How long does long-term care last?

The duration of care is dependent on the medical care needs and or support services.  For example, home care support needs will differ from medication management and occupational therapy.

What should be considered for long-term care planning?

When planning for long-term care you should consider the following:

• Cost. The cost of care will vary depending on the state which you live, and the care needed.  
  • Understand home services versus facility costs and billing practices
  • Inquire about finance options
  • Insurance
• Think about your health care wishes and make a plan. Taking part in advance care planning ensures your health care wishes are honored.
• Explore the long-term care options which may include home health services, assisted living, adult day care, independent living and hospice care.  
• Understand available resources within your community, county and state.
• Determine when it's time. It may not be easy to predict or acknowledge when you need long-term care. By determining in advance and communicating to your loved ones and or caregiver, they will be able to execute your wishes.
• Standards of living. It’s key to understand your financial health while planning for long-term care.  This will help you and your loved ones determine long-term care insurance and or other financial support.
• Understand services within your community, county and state. Identify care providers and schedule an appointment for a tour to learn about the services.

How do you pay for long-term care?

Cost for long-term care will vary based on your needs.  Here are options to consider covering the cost for care.

• Self-insuring using personal savings
• Medicaid
• If eligible, veteran benefits
• Health savings account
• Life insurance policy
• Long-term care insurance
• Funding from family members and friends
• Reverse mortgages

How can you delay or prevent long-term care?

• Regular exercise (3-5x per week)
• Healthy eating habits
• Brain health
• Improving muscle weakness and balance

Long-term care includes services designed to help you maintain your quality of life.  

Church Home LifeSpring is driven to exceed normal caregiving as an experienced provider of rehabilitation services to the Middle Georgia community. Contact us if we can assist you or a loved one.