Long-Term Care Facts

by Laura Derrington

Overview

7b477956-cfaa-da4f-5dff-7d556c144d42400300

Knowing when a loved one needs long-term care, and who is best qualified to provide this care, can be difficult without some basic understanding of what is available.
Definition

Long-term care is provided when a person requires skilled care around the clock as a result of illness, a chronic condition or an accident. These individuals need assistance with regular daily activities such as dressing, eating, bathing or taking medication.

Probability

People at any age can develop the need for long-term care. Approximately 70 percent of men and women over age 65 will require at least some type of long-term care during their lifetime. Over 40 percent will need care in a nursing home for some period of time.
Costs

Cost is affected by type and length of care, as well as geographic region. The average U.S. costs are approximately $5,600 a month for a semi-private room in a nursing home and $6,300 for a private room. Medicare only pays for long-term care deemed medically necessary. This does not include custodial care---assistance with dressing, bathing or other activities of daily living.
Caregivers

Licensed nurses generally are available 24 hours a day, as well as certified nursing assistants. The number and variety of specialists---physical therapists, speech pathologists, podiatrists---can vary according to each facility.
Checklist for Choosing a Long-Term Care Facility

Ask the administrator about the patient-staff ratio. Talk to some of the residents and ask them how satisfied they are with the community. Visit during a mealtime to evaluate the dining services. Find out what kind of group activities are offered and if residents have the opportunity to occasionally go outdoors.

Overview