Do I need to plan for my own long-term care?

home care omahaA new poll examined how Americans over 40 are preparing for their personal long-term care. In short, the majority of people are underestimating their own eventual need for care as they reach their senior years, according to the poll by AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. This appears in contrast to the fact that more than half of those polled have already been caregivers for an ailing relative or friend.

Here are some of the findings from the poll, adapted from the AP.

    • Two-thirds have done little to no planning for their personal long-term care.

 

    • 3 in 10 don’t want to think about getting older at all.

 

    • A quarter think it’s very likely they’ll need help caring for themselves during their elder years.

 

    • 6 out of 10 haven’t talked with family and other loved ones about needing long-term care (even though most people expect family take on the burdensome responsibility).

 

    • Half thought that everyone will need assistance at some point in their lives.

 

    • 60 percent underestimated the average cost of a nursing home.

 

    • 37 percent mistakenly thought Medicare will cover the costs of a nursing home.

 

    • Less than half didn’t think they’d need Medicaid

 

    • Only 27 percent were confident they’d have the financial resources they’ll need for their care.

 

Start that dreaded conversation

It’s crucial to start that conversation with those who will likely be responsible for overseeing your care when the time comes. The article suggests addressing questions like: Do they want to help ? Do they have the time, money and skills necessary to ensure your care needs are met? If a loved one likely won’t be able to be your primary caregiver, can they afford to hire help? And what if you’re unable to remain at home? It’s also good time to revise your living will if you haven’t done so already.

By 2050, the number of elderly Americans — those 65 and older — is set to more than double by 2050, according to the Population Reference Bureau. With a rapidly aging population, those older adults who are prepared for their personal long-term care should be the norm rather than the exception.

Physicians Choice Private Duty  currently serving Omaha, Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa ” provides seniors and their families a complete understanding of the available care options and helps families maneuver through the challenges of the system. All Encompass services are directed by registered nurses or social workers with no long-term contracts. Contact us today for help with your senior care needs.

Photo credit: guilherme.storck via photopin cc

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