*Note: We so appreciate the overwhelming response to our free, no-obligation presentations. We have several presentations scheduled, many full with waiting lists. We are looking for ways we can accommodate more of you and still provide the comfortable setting we feel is essential for you to have a productive experience. The option to join via Zoom is available for all of our presentations.
In my presentations, I stress the importance of preparing for “long term care” needs. Long term care is not about hospitalization. In fact, it is not really even about medical care. It is about the inability to provide for one’s basic personal needs, often called “activities of daily living,” because of ongoing health challenges. Examples of “activities of daily living” include eating, dressing, and toileting.
Long-term care can be divided into four categories, based primarily on the level of assistance needed.
First, is “home-based” care, which allows for services to be provided in the comfort of the recipient’s own home. For those who are trying to take care of a spouse at home, these services can even include personal care services that will allow the healthy spouse a chance to rest or take care of his/her own personal needs for a few hours a week.
Home based services are often the least expensive. However, home based care can also be among the most expensive should the recipient choose to receive in-home, extensive services typically provided in a skilled nursing facility.
Second, is an independent living facility. Although residents technically do not need assistance with “activities of daily living,” these facilities can provide significant conveniences and assistance. In addition, these facilities often provide activities specifically of interest to seniors.
Third, for those who are unable to live independently, there are assisted living facilities. These facilities provide residential housing but also provide personalized support services for those who need assistance with activities of daily living. An example is assisted living for individuals living with dementia.
Finally, there are facilities which provide skilled nursing services. These facilities assist individuals needing 24-hour assistance, but without hospitalization. They also provide significant assistance for activities of daily living. As the name provides, this type of facility offers “skilled” medical assistance and services.
Statistically, a significant majority of seniors will need one or more of these services. Come to a free presentation to learn how to be prepared for these and other challenges facing seniors.
Steve Wright is a local attorney who provides free, no obligation estate planning and elder law presentations. His next presentations are Tuesday, March 8th at 3 pm (full), Wednesday, March 23rd at 6 pm (full), Tuesday, April 5th at 3 pm (full) and Wednesday, April 20th at 6 pm. Sign up by calling (208) 523-4433 or sending an e-mail to info@wrightlawidaho.com.
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