Many people need a little help with everyday life. Housekeeping chores can become difficult for an older adult or a person with a chronic illness. Personal care may suffer when it is harder to move or lift things. There are different types of services available that meet a person’s need over a longer period of time. These services are called Long Term Care and Supports. Be sure to discuss this with your family. Here are tips for starting a conversation.

Long term care provides the individual user with choices among a variety of medical and non-medical services. These services provide recipients appropriate options for care that support the most independent lifestyle as possible.

• Questions to think about and ask others

  Start with these questions. They’ll help you focus and point you in the right direction. Be sure to write down your answers.

• Who can benefit from long term care services?

  Long term care services may be needed by people of any age. Most often, people use long term care services if they have chronic conditions and/or disabilities. They may need assistance with their daily activities like dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom.

• Where are long term care services delivered?

  Long term care services can be provided in a variety of settings including:

  • In your own home

  • Assisted living centers or homes

  • Group homes

  • Intermediate care facilities

  • Skilled nursing care facilities

• How do long term care needs change over time?

  The longer we live, the more likely we'll need some form of long term care. Some people need long term care for a short period of time while recovering from a surgery or injury. Others may need long term care services on an ongoing basis. For example, someone who has been disabled from a stroke may need help with all daily activities but can be cared for at home. However, some people with chronic illnesses or disabilities may need to move to an assisted living or skilled nursing facility for more intensive care or supervision.

• What services are available and where are they delivered?

  Long term care comes in many forms. For some people, it's enough if a housekeeper or a personal care aide comes into their home for a few hours a week. A nurse can visit to provide help with medical care and medications. When assistance is needed on a regular basis, assisted living centers or group homes may be appropriate. There are many types of Long Term Care to accommodate personal preferences and needs.

• How can I plan and pay for long term care services?

  It's important to think about your preferences and needs. It is also important to think ahead about how you will pay for the care you get. Use the following resources to start planning:

  The National Clearinghouse for Long Term Care Information offers valuable information. It is supported by the Administration on Aging at the U.S. Department of Health Services. Learn about the different services and where they are available. There is also help to begin planning and think about the costs of services.

  • The Medicare Long Term Care Planning Tool asks you questions about yourself. The results help you understand what your long term care may cost and what options you have for financing services.

  • Government Programs

    Most people overestimate the amount that government programs will pay. Learn more about government programs and their role in long term care.

• Other information resources:

  • AZ Links Long Term Care Resources.

  • AZ Links Insurance, Medicare & Other Benefits