Before selecting a long-term care facility, make sure to ask the right questions and gather information about the facility. These questions should be geared toward the type of care your loved one needs, as well as the cost and waiting list. You should also ask about the facility's policies and rules regarding visitors and residents, as well as any restrictions or waiting periods. You should also consider the amount of light your loved one needs in a particular unit.
Questions To Ask
Before choosing a long-term care facility, there are several questions to ask yourself and your loved one. The care they require is highly dependent on the type of care you choose. If your loved one has Alzheimer's or dementia, you will want to consider assisted living. Memory care is designed for seniors who need constant help. While both types of care have their own benefits, you should discuss the costs of each option with the care provider and decide which type of care is right for your loved one.
It's always best to tour several long term care facilities before settling on a decision. This way, you can get a more realistic idea of the quality of care you'll be receiving. While questions over the phone can provide useful information, the only way to truly know how a facility is for your loved one is to schedule a personal visit. While a tour isn't as informative as a phone interview, it will give you a good idea of whether the care facility is a good fit.
Cost
The cost of long-term care facilities is often the number one concern for family caregivers and patients alike. A single year of long-term care can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars and may put a strain on an individual's life savings. However, if long-term care is required, it is best to plan ahead and purchase long-term care insurance. Here are some of the costs to consider.
Assisted living and memory care are generally the least expensive. Skilled nursing facilities may cost up to $10,000 per month and are not appropriate for everyone. Although the costs of long-term care facilities vary considerably, it is crucial to understand how they work. On average, assisted living and memory care facilities will cost around $3,600 per month. But the cost of long-term care can reach six and a half thousand dollars per month and can be much higher.
Location
When looking for Long Term Care facilities, there are several things to consider. It's important to visit the community several times to ensure it has the level of care and services that you expect for your loved one. Ask about the staff and medical care. Ask about the ratio of caregivers to patients. Learn about the facility's policies on vaccinations and antipsychotic drugs. You can also ask about transportation to community activities and religious services.
While looking for assisted living, it's important to ask about the amenities and personal preferences of the residents. You should also ask about the social interaction, religious affiliation, and community connections. If possible, ask about the medical treatment offered, and find out how much it costs. Find out if Medicare is accepted, and make sure your loved one's needs can be accommodated in their facility.
Insurance
Before making the final decision on a long-term care facility for your loved one, you need to research it thoroughly. While speaking with the director of a facility may offer limited insight into its services and care, visiting one is the best way to get a good idea of what to expect. Ask questions about the community's atmosphere, cleanliness, comfort, and recreational facilities. Also, make sure to ask about the level of care and if Medicare is accepted by the facility.
Many people do not consider long-term care insurance until they are in need. Because of the cost, many people think they do not need it. However, nearly two-thirds of Americans believe that government programs will cover their loved one's long-term care needs. That's simply not true. Unlike Medicare, most traditional long-term care insurance policies do not cover the full cost of long-term care, so it's vital to consider whether or not you'll need it.
