When Is Long Term Care Needed?

As you look to the future, it’s hard to imagine a day when you can no longer care for yourself. It’s also difficult to think of a time when a parent or loved one cannot live on their own. 

Before you get to this point, having a conversation about long term care can help prepare yourself or a loved one to make the transition more easily.  

What is Long Term Care?

Long term care is a broad term that includes a variety of living arrangements and levels of support. Seeking long term care options becomes necessary when you or your family member needs assistance with simple tasks such as walking, eating, using the restroom and transportation. Watch for these warning signs: 

Physical issues: Look for physical signs such as weight loss, problems with balance, falling, loss of strength and loss of daily living activities (including showering, dressing and eating). 

Mental deterioration: This can include memory loss and confusing names. It can also be an early sign of dementia. This symptom can worsen quickly and cause many safety issues. 

Changes in lifestyle: Look for things that are out of place in the house, or if the house isn’t being kept clean and neat. Also, pay attention to physical damage such as burn marks in the kitchen. 

Long Term Senior Care

Not everyone who requires this type of senior care needs it to be a permanent solution. It can be a temporary arrangement for some adults, including those who need: 

• Rehabilitation from a hospital stay.
• Recovery from illness.
• Recovery from injury.
• Recovery from surgery.

The more permanent version of long term care is typically due to the following: 

• Chronic medical conditions.
• Chronic severe pain.
• Permanent disabilities.
• Dementia.
• Needing help with daily living activities.
• Need for supervision.

Planning for the Future

Having knowledge about long term care can lessen the stress of making decisions about senior care. Plan ahead for your care or care for a loved one with these steps: 

1. Educate yourself: Learn the difference between assisted living, independent living, skilled nursing and hospice in order to understand what each provides. 

2. Plan financially: The cost of your living needs will vary depending on what you require. Ask facilities about any assistance programs they offer, and educate yourself on what Medicaid covers. Medicaid can provide long term care coverage, but eligibility varies from state to state, and not everyone can qualify. 

Read Blog: A Senior’s Guide to Medicare Benefits 

3. Find long term care centers near you: Start researching what facilities are near you. Once you have a few places that interest you, set up times to take tours and meet the staff. It is important to see the environment and what they offer firsthand. 

4. Create legal instructions: This will help you stay in charge of your decisions about personal care and finances. 

Starting the Conversation about Future Senior Care

As your parents or other loved ones age, a discussion about senior living arrangements might be necessary. These conversations can be difficult but are beneficial for everyone involved. 

Tips for having a productive conversation with a loved one include: 

• Plan ahead so you can evaluate options together.
• Listen to their concerns and preferences.
• Involve others in the conversations if they do not respond to you.

Read Blog: Talking to Aging Parents About Assisted Living: How to Open the Conversation 

Care Options in Dowling Park at Advent Christian Village

When you are ready to begin your search for long term care centers near you, we invite you to learn more about Dacier Manor, the assisted living community at Advent Christian Village, and Good Samaritan Center, offering skilled nursing and memory care services. Our supportive staff and amenities can ensure each member has the highest level of care. Contact us at Advent Christian Village to schedule your senior living tour today.