About Long-Term Care for the Elderly

by Sarah Elliot

Overview

Caregiver

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Long-term care is a combination of medical and personal care services designed to meet an individual's health and care needs for an extended period. Long-term care can be home-based or facility-based. According to the National Clearing House for Long Term Care Information, approximately nine million people over age 65 in the United States are receiving long-term care.
Risk Factors

People with poor health habits or family histories of serious medical conditions have a high risk of needing long-term care in their later years. Women are at greater risk because they live longer than men.

Home Care

Many older people require only assistance with daily living activities such as eating, bathing, dressing and being mobile, rather than care for medical needs. For these people, care in their own homes is often a good option
Facility Care

Some elderly people need long-term care because they have conditions that require frequent treatment or monitoring by medical professionals. These people are usually better suited for care in a skilled nursing facility or other medically based living situation.
Payment

Long-term care is often expensive. Some people are able to pay with their own funds. Others rely on programs such as Medicare, Medicaid and private health or long-term care insurance.
Getting Help

There are a variety of services for elders in need of care, and it's useful to consult with professionals who know what is available and how to access it. These professionals include hospital social workers, social services caseworkers and personnel at agencies dedicated to serving the elderly.