Very few individuals want to think about their future needs for aging services and long-term care until it becomes a necessity, which can often lead to poor planning. The biggest consequence of poor planning is a rushed decision which may not fit the individual’s needs. Planning ahead for unexpected illness, injury, or simply the typical needs of the elderly, can eliminate quick decision making on a wide variety of aging service options. In addition, planning in advance increases an individual’s choices and gives them a say in the type of assistance they receive.
Assisted living facilities, retirement communities and nursing homes frequently have a waiting list for admission. When a unit opens up, it will usually be offered to individuals on the waiting list before someone without an application. In-home care service providers, such as Comfort Keepers of Gainesville, Ocala, & The Villages, typically do not have waiting lists and allow for the client to continue living independently in the comfort of their own home. These services generally include companionship, home cooking, light housekeeping, shopping, transportation, and errands, but may also include personal care services such as bathing, feeding, transferring or incontinence care.
The cost of long-term care services is something for which many Americans are not prepared, and costs are expected to continually rise in the future. Today in the United States, 6,000 people turn 65 every day, and one in five Americans will be older than age 65 by the year 2030 (American Association of Retired Persons, 2003). This increase of U.S. seniors translates into more people looking for assistance with daily living activities at a staggering rate.
Figuring out how to pay for long-term care can be confusing, and reviewing payment options can be very complicated. In the planning stages, it is often beneficial to speak with a professional about how to begin this process. Lawyers, accountants, professional care coordinators or your Area Agency on Aging can explain the options and which direction to head.
In this next series of blog posts, we are going to cover some the ways you might be able to better plan and find ways to afford and pay for long-term care that can meet your needs.
Sometimes it is hard to take that step in securing help for yourself, your elderly family member or friend, but remember, we are Comfort Keepers and we are here to help! If you have questions about in-home care for your loved ones in the Central Florida area call us at 855-592-0013.
Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages, Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
