What are your long-term care resources?

Long-term care (LTC) refers to a variety of services that are designed to meet the needs of individuals who are unable to perform basic activities of daily living (ADLs) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) for an extended period. The ADLs include bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, and eating, while IADLs include housekeeping, shopping, meal preparation, and managing finances. Many elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities may require long-term care services at some point in their lives. However, the lack of information about LTC can significantly impact families looking for help with LTC.

Impact on the Decision-Making Process The decision to seek long-term care services is often a difficult one for families. This is particularly true when families lack information about the different types of LTC services available and how they are funded. For example, some families may not be aware that there are different options for LTC services, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health care. Moreover, families may not know that some LTC services may be covered by Medicare or Medicaid, while others may require private payment.

Families who lack information about LTC services may make decisions that are not in their best interest. For instance, they may choose a nursing home because it is the only option they are aware of, even though an assisted living facility or home health care may have been a better choice for their loved one. In addition, families may be unaware of the quality of care provided by different LTC providers. This lack of information can lead to families choosing providers that are not providing adequate care, which can have serious consequences for the health and well-being of their loved one.

Lack of information about LTC services can also have a significant impact on families' financial planning. For example, families may not be aware that there are long-term care insurance options available, or that these options may be more affordable than private payment for LTC services. Moreover, families may not be aware of the costs associated with different types of LTC services and may not have a clear understanding of what their financial responsibilities will be.

For families who are not aware of the different financing options available, LTC services can be a significant financial burden. They may have to pay for LTC services out of pocket, which can have a significant impact on their finances and their ability to provide for their own needs. Furthermore, families may not be aware of the tax implications of LTC services and may not be able to take advantage of tax benefits that could help offset the cost of LTC services.

Lack of information about LTC services can also impact the quality of care received by individuals who require LTC. When families are not aware of the different types of LTC services available or the quality of care provided by different providers, they may choose providers that are not providing adequate care. This can result in individuals receiving substandard care, which can have serious consequences for their health and well-being.

In addition, when families lack information about LTC services, they may not be able to advocate effectively for their loved one. For example, they may not be aware of the rights of individuals receiving LTC services or how to file a complaint if they believe their loved one is receiving inadequate care. This lack of knowledge can limit families' ability to ensure that their loved one is receiving the highest quality of care possible.

According to a survey conducted by the National Council on Aging, 70% of individuals over the age of 65 will require long-term care services at some point in their lives. However, only 40% of these individuals have discussed LTC planning with their families or loved ones.

In a separate survey conducted by the National Alliance for Caregiving, it was found that nearly 60% of family caregivers reported that they had difficulty finding information about LTC services and resources. This lack of information can have a significant impact on the quality of care received by individuals who require LTC.

A study by the AARP Public Policy Institute found that the average cost of a nursing home in the United States was over $90,000 per year in 2021. For families who are paying for LTC services out of pocket, this cost can be a significant financial burden. Furthermore, the study found that the cost of LTC services is expected to increase in the coming years.

These data points highlight the importance of increasing access to information about LTC services for families. When families are informed about the different types of LTC services available, how they are funded, and the quality of care provided by different providers, they are better equipped to make decisions that are in the best interest of their loved one. This can help ensure that individuals receive the highest quality of care possible and can help families make informed decisions about LTC planning and financing.

There are many resources available to families who are looking for help with long-term care. Here are a few of the most common:

1. Government websites: Government websites, such as the Medicare and Medicaid websites, offer a wealth of information about LTC services, including information about eligibility, costs, and the types of services available.

2. Non-profit organizations: Non-profit organizations, such as the National Council on Aging, the National Alliance for Caregiving, and the AARP, offer a range of resources and information for families who are looking for LTC services. These organizations often provide educational materials, such as guides and brochures, as well as information about local LTC providers and support services.

3. Online resources: There are a number of online resources available for families who are looking for information about LTC services. For example, websites like A Place for Mom and Caring.com offer information about different types of LTC services, including assisted living and nursing homes, as well as resources for finding local LTC providers.

4. Local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): AAA's are government-funded organizations that provide information and support to older adults and their families. They can help families connect with local LTC providers and can provide information about government programs, such as Medicaid, that can help pay for LTC services.

5. Professional associations: Professional associations, such as the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers, offer information and support to families who are looking for LTC services. They can provide referrals to local LTC providers and can offer guidance on LTC planning and financing.

6. Financial advisors: Financial advisors can help families plan for the costs of LTC services and can offer information about funding options, such as long-term care insurance.

These resources can provide families with the information they need to make informed decisions about LTC services for their loved ones. By taking advantage of these resources, families can ensure that their loved ones receive the highest quality of care possible and can help ease the burden of LTC planning and financing.