Long Term Care (LTC)
Long-term care is assistance with such daily tasks as dressing, bathing, eating, using the toilet, and getting around as necessary. Long-term care can also provide help with housework, shopping, money management, and various other aspects of daily living.
LTC is not medical care.
You may be assisted in taking medications, but other medical services are usually not provided.
Why might I need long-term care?
Illness or disability may require you to use long-term care. If you suffer memory loss or any cognitive impairment, you may need long-term care. Many people suffering effects of Alzheimer’s disease, for example, require long-term care.
Elderly persons are often in need of LTC.
About half of the over 20 million Americans currently receiving long-term care are over 65. Most elderly Americans will require long-term care at some point. Some will receive it in a nursing home, while others will receive LTC at home. Approximately 20% of Americans over 65 will need care for longer than five years.
Who pays for long-term care?
Contrary to what many people believe, Medicare does not normally pay for long-term care. Medicare coverage is generally limited to short periods of time when you require skilled services or rehabilitative care. Medicare does not cover non-skilled assistance with daily living activities. Private long-term care insurance (LTCI) is available, and TRICARE for Life may be of some assistance to military retirees and family members needing long-term care.
If you would like more information about LTC planning, Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B), Medigap, or anything else concerning senior health care, MedicareMall is at your service.
Contact us now and we’ll make your well-being our number one priority.