How to Find Long Term Care for Seniors

Finding the best long term care for seniors can be a challenge but is worth the time and effort that you put into it. There are several things to consider when deciding to move to a long term care facility or staying in your home. You need to consider costs, location, level of care and activities. Some people have a long term care insurance that will allow them to move into a facility or stay in their homes without the worry of how to pay for the costs. Living close to a family member or friend is an important factor to think about when choosing a location. Quality of care and the facilities atmosphere makes the difference between adequate care and awesome care.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Paying For Your Long Term Care
   First, the financial resources for your long term care needs to be addressed so that you can make the best choice available for you. The choices to pay for your long term care are self pay, long term care insurance or a government program for those who qualify. If you are eligible you may decide to get a long term care insurance plan.

2. Decide on a Location
   Where do you want to live? Take a tour of the senior communities that fit your budget. If a family member or friend will be checking in on you daily or weekly try to find a facility that is close to them. Daily visits from a family member are much easier made if you are in the same community. A cross country commute will limit the number of visits that your receive. A safe neighborhood in a growing community has a lot to offer. If you plan to stay in your home be sure that you have the support and resources that are necessary for your care.

3. Assess the Level of Care that You Need
   Today your choices of care range from independent, to catered independent, assisted care, attend care, nursing home care to in home care. Write down the areas of physical and mental care that you need help before choosing a facility. You may not need to move to a nursing home if you really only need help with a few basics of daily living. Your local social worker can help guide you to the level of care that you need.

4. Maintain a Positive Attitude
   Everything that happens can be improved by maintaining a positive attitude. You may be angry or upset about having to move to long term care but the journey will be much improved by maintaining a positive attitude. There are many support groups throughout the country to help you and your family.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for practical and affordable solutions to your long term care.
• Try a respite program for a week or two to learn first hand how a facility is run.

Resources

• More Senior Living Articles by Sharon Meier
• Senior Living Tips and How To's

[jaredsgirl]

on 10/5/2009 I work at a hospital where I link patients with area nursing homes and assisted living facilities. It can be tough on all involved to find good long term care. Great article! Nicely written tips. 5*