Planning for long term care is often done for a loved one, as it becomes needed. However, long-term care should be thought of in advance. It is hard to imagine getting into an accident or having an injury that could cause long-term care, or aging to the point of needing assistance. However, it is most ideal to plan ahead. The reason for this is because you can then be involved in making important decisions for your own long-term care, while you are well. Several decisions need to be made, including determining finances, housing, evaluating your health, and completing advance directives.
Housing: Many adults prefer and request to remain in their homes when assisted living is required. There are resources available to assist with this. There are also many assisted living homes that can be explored too.
Evaluating your health: Talk with family, friends, your doctor and anyone who would be a part of your decision making process to determine your choice of care. You can also talk with your doctor about your health, family history and genetics to determine the best course of action.
Finances: Long-term care funding can be different for people and can come from savings, insurance or other benefits. It is important to have a financial plan in place because long-term care can be costly.
Advance directives: Every adult should establish an advance directive. An advance directive will give another individual authority to make decisions on your behalf, or a way for you to give consent in certain medical situations.
This subject is difficult to grasp for oneself and/or for a loved one. There is help available to assist you in this process. The National Institute on Aging provides a lot of great information and resources. Click here to see their website: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/planning-long-term-care