Long Term Care

For senior citizens who are either too frail, lack the capacity to live alone or need services above and beyond assisted living, long term care facilities are an option. In many cases, the individual would prefer to live outside the long term care facility but diminished mental capacity, fragility, health status or cost is an impediment. Long term nursing providers offer 24 hour around the clock in house caring services which make long term care an attractive option for individuals who need greater assistance. These services offer differing degrees of service so selecting a care provider warrants the investigation of several considerations.

One of the decisive factors that will play a part in your investigation of long term care facilities is the degree of required care. Long term nursing providers can provide skilled nursing care for 24 hour around the clock nursing. If your health condition requires this level of attention, you will need to select a provider that can offer this level of service. Other providers offer long term personal assistance, including health monitoring with very little active nursing. These establishments cater to more active retirees who need care but not continual nursing. Affordability and the right type of care will be the two motivating factors affecting your decision. Seniors will also want to consider what type of environment exists at the establishment and whether it will offer the appropriate level of social interaction and stimulation.

Intermediate care facilities are establishments which provide a higher level of care for individuals who are suffering from debilitating illness or impairment. These establishment offer long term care to patients who need personal care and assistance. A practical nurse is almost always on duty. These establishments are not equipped with high tech monitoring provided by skilled nursing or hospital establishments but they are suitable as a long term care facility whereas the other providers only cater to short term or recovery stays. Medicare does not cover long term care facilities nor does most private health insurance. Medicaid may provide limited assistance.

Long term care nursing facilities are the best option for individuals who do not require extensive medical care. These establishments do monitor physical and health conditions and provide a greater level of stimulation and social interaction. These long term care facilities can cost up to $250 a day, however. Medicare and private health insurance do not cover this service unless they are certified by the Healthcare Financing Administration. Up to 85 % of providers are usually certified but not all establishments accept individuals who rely on Medicaid. Medicaid may, however, be available for low income earners or individuals with a low asset base and if you have planned ahead, long term care insurance will usually pick up the tab.

Your search for a long term facility should cover the required level of service within an acceptable budget whilst providing the necessary physical, mental and emotional stimulation. You can often get referrals by asking around amongst health professionals. This will help you narrow down your search.

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