​The older you are, the more you can benefit from physical activity. Despite this, many find as they age, their activity level decreases. Reported barriers to participation in exercise for older adults include safety, fear, health concerns, pain, fatigue, and lack of social support. So what physical activity should seniors do?

​There is strong evidence that seniors who partake in physical activity have lower rates of diabetes, hypertension, coronary heart disease, colon cancer, breast cancer and hypertension. They are also likely to have a healthier body mass, enhanced bone mass, higher levels of functional health, better cognitive function and a decreased risk of falling. 

Physical activity not only helps your physical health, but also your mental health. There is a well documented link between physical activity and increased mood-enhancement within as little as five minutes post exercise. Long term, exercise has been found to help alleviate depression and reduce your risk of developing Dementia/Alzheimer’s.

Importantly for many, it can also help you stay independent and in your home for longer. 

The World Health Organisation suggests older adults aged 65 and above should follow the below guidelines:

• Older adults should aim to do one of the following:
  • At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week 
  • At least 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week
  • A combination of moderate and vigorous intensity activity. 
• Aerobic activity should be completed in bouts of at least 10 minute duration
• For additional health benefits, older adults should increase their time spent doing physical activity to one of the following: 
  • At least 300 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week 
  • At least 150 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week
  • A combination of moderate and vigorous intensity activity. 
• Older adults with poor mobility should perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on 3 or more days per week. 
• Older adults should perform muscle strengthening activities, involving major muscle groups, on 2 or more days a week. 
• If unable to complete the recommended amounts of physical activity due to health conditions, be as physically active as conditions and abilities allow. 

Aerobic exercise provides cardiovascular activity. It increases your heart rate and breathing rate. Over time, you will notice your stamina improve and that you are able to carry out the same activity with less effort. 

In short, aerobic physical activity can be classed as any rhythmic continuous activity. Great examples are walking, running, dancing, aerobics, sitting aerobics, swimming, pickleball or cycling. Activities such as gardening, dog walking and household chores also count!  

One of the most common blockers seniors report to starting running is knowing exactly how to get started. What was a relatively simple activity in our younger years can be intimidating as we age. Perley-Ann Friedman explains how running is easy, but does require some planning. Taking the effort to carefully plan your running can make all the difference. She explains how in 6 easy steps on how to start running after 60.

As we age, our muscles naturally begin to shrink and lose mass. This process starts in our 30s but accelerates in our 50/60s.  

There is strong evidence that strength and power training can mitigate the effects of aging on neuromuscular function and functional capacity. Various forms of resistance training have potential to improve muscle strength, mass, and power output. In addition, chronic resistance exercise improves bone mineral density and decreases abdominal and visceral fat mass in adults. For these reasons, resistance exercise is often considered a “medicine”. 

If you are worried about ‘bulking’ out by lifting weights, fear not. Despite what you often read online, strength training is actually an excellent way to tone and burn fat. Using weights will not turn you into the hulk! It is also incredibly important for functional independence. If you can combine strength and power training into your workout, you will retain lifelong vitality. 

Strength / resistance training can be completed using hand weights, weight machines, resistance bands or even just your own body weight. If you aren’t sure where to start, 5 non negotiable rules of strength training for women over 50 is a great introduction. 

Falling is often quoted as people’s number one fear as they age. Improving balance is a significant contributing factor to mitigating the risks. Not only do balance activities help reduce the risk of a fall, they can lower the risk of injury if a fall does occur. Many believe that improving your mobility and balance is the key to survival and healthspan. 

Balance activities tend to fall into two categories, stationary or active. Stationary exercises are performed standing still, holding a specific position for a set amount of time trying not to move from the starting position. Active exercises move your centre of gravity, such as walking along a line or turning in a circle. Including strength training to help the muscles in your legs, core (stomach area) and back get stronger can be particularly beneficial for seeing improvements with balance. 

Performing balance exercises can feel strange – you will more than likely feel unstable, wobble or have to hold onto something. Specialist exercise instructor Claudine Aherne explains what you should expect to feel and how to know you are doing it correctly in this article. 

Apart from standing on one leg, what other balance exercises can you try? These 3 exercises work on strengthening your core. Your core literally stabilizes your entire body – so if this is strong, balance becomes much easier. 

If you are looking for something a bit more energetic, why not try rebounding. The unstable surface and constant change in centre of gravity makes it a fun and active way to improve your balance, alongside a host of other benefits.

Many seniors treat joint pain as a part of getting older, but there are many things you can do to help. Keeping your joints mobile and undertaking some basic movement patterns and stretching will help improve flexibility and joint range of motion. Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates are all excellent modes of activity to help with both of these. 

If you have never tried yoga, you may think it is for the younger generation, or those still mobile enough to contort their bodies into all kinds of shapes.  Our Introduction to Gentle Yoga for Older Adults explains exactly why that isn’t true and pinpoints exactly why yoga is so important for people of all ages, no matter your level of mobility. If your mobility is limited, chair yoga may be the perfect solution.

The goal is to do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week. However, if you are currently inactive, or doing less than this amount, it is important to start slowly and work up to this volume. 

Our three top tips for becoming more active:

#1 Start Small – Find opportunities to move throughout the day. Take the stairs, walk to the mailbox, vacuum a room in the house. Every little bit adds up! A wearable step counter can be a great way to start. Set yourself a target number of steps per day and try to hit that number. The fitter you get, the higher your target step count can be.

#2 Find Something You Enjoy – If you enjoy the activity you are much more likely to stick with it. Even better – find a friend to join you so you can motivate each other and keep each other going. You may feel comfortable exercising at home or attending a generic exercise class at a local gym. If not, find your local Area Agency on Aging and enquire about any senior exercise classes they offer! 

#3 Know Your Body – The key is to not do too much too soon. If you have any underlying health issues, always visit your health care provider before you start a new exercise program to get the all clear. 

Becoming more active is one of the best decisions you can make for your health. It will help you stay independent for longer and reduce your risk of age related injuries or illnesses. For more ideas on activities check out our fitness section.

According to the Administration on Aging, only approximately 3.5 percent of seniors 65 and older choose to live in institutional settings, such as nursing homes. Most of the rest live alone or with a spouse.

In fact, more and more seniors are choosing to age in place. The decision to do so is often about safety and comfort as it allows seniors to stay within the home and community they're familiar with. And in fact, there are many benefits to aging in place—keeping one's independence, staying in familiar surroundings, and avoiding the expense of a full-time care facility are just a few. But it's important for seniors aging in place to know what factors can affect them. With a large number of senior citizens choosing to age at home, it is imperative that they have the resources and information to do so safely and with dignity.

To age in place safely and with dignity, seniors must educate themselves about a few potential problem areas:

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, “Slip and Fall' accidents are the main cause of injury among the elderly. For seniors living at home, falls do not have to be a way of life. They can be prevented:

Take care of easy-to-fix environmental hazards – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three elderly adults fall each year. However, by making a few small changes, aging in place seniors can significantly reduce the risk of danger. For example, simply removing a rug or replacing a light bulb can make a big difference.

Follow this fall prevention “Safe at Home' Checklist – Every home is full of potential fall hazards. From checking entrances and exits to windows to specific rooms, this checklist is comprehensive and provides an easy way to look for and eradicate fall hazards in the home.

Understand how health issues and medications cause falls –There are many factors, such as health issues and medication side effects that contribute to falls. It is essential that seniors aging in place understand how their health issues and the side effects of their medications increase their risk of falling.
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Get exercise – Being able to age in place requires that individuals be as healthy and fit as possible. Muscle weakness can be one cause of falls. For seniors aging in place, maintaining muscle strength is essential. Fortunately, there are many exercises to help do so. Even occassional yardwork can be quite beneficial.

Because of issues connected to aging, such as having to take medicines that potentially slow reaction times to a decrease in mobility and agility, older adults are especially prone to accidents in the home. In fact, it is estimated that seniors have 2.3 million accidents each year.Here's an overview of how seniors aging in place can keep themselves safe at home.

In the kitchen – With a high risk for slipping and the potential for fire, the kitchen can be an especially dangerous place for seniors. Of course, there are many ways to prevent accidents from happening. Cleaning up spills immediately after they happen, closing cabinets and drawers, and avoiding wearing loose-fitting clothing are just a few great tips offered by this resource.  

In the bathroom – Wet floors, loose towel wracks, stepping in and out of the bathtub--these are just a few of the potential safety problems seniors encounter in the bathroom. These top tips are great for keeping seniors aging in place safe in the bathroom.

In the bedroom – The bedroom should be a place of relaxation and comfort. Unfortunately, if certain precautions aren't taken it can become dangerous for seniors aging in place. Among other great tips, this guide teaches seniors to ensure that their rooms are well-lit; that pathways in the room are clear; and that beds are easy to get in and out of.
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Fire prevention – Seniors are at a higher risk of dying in a home fire than the rest of the population. This comprehensive guide to fire safety for seniors covers how to prevent specific kinds of fires, including kitchen fires, electrical fires, and home heating fires; explains how to treat burns; teaches seniors how to make a fire escape plan; and includes a “Home Fire Safety Checklist.'

It is unfortunate but seniors are often viewed as easy targets for fraud schemes and scams. According to the FBI, senior citizens are preferred targets for fraudsters because they are often financially secure—either own their home or have a “nest egg'—are polite and trusting, are reluctant to report the crimes because they're embarrassed, and make poor witnesses.
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The FBI provides a comprehensive list of tips on how seniors can avoid being victims of several different kinds of fraud (e.g., Health Care and Health Insurance Fraud, Counterfeit Prescription Drugs, Funeral and Cemetery Fraud, Fraudulent “Anti-Aging' Products, Telemarketing Fraud, Internet Fraud, Investment Schemes, Reverse Mortgage Scams). Below are more great resources:

• How to avoid identity theft
• How to avoid telemarketing fraud
• How to avoid healthcare fraud
• How to prevent Medicare fraud
• What seniors need to know about reverse mortgages
• How to avoid funeral and cemetery fraud
• What to do if you're targeted

Aging in place can be a great way for seniors to retain their independence and stay in familiar surroundings as they age; however, it is important to consider the unique costs associated with doing so. Here's a resource checklist outlining costs seniors should consider when planning to age in place.
✔   Will you need home care?
✔   Will you need home modifications?
✔   Will you need to pay for transportation?
✔   Will you be on a fixed income?
✔   Do you qualify for certain benefits?
✔   Do you know how to make the most of your money?
✔   How much will Medicare cost you?

Family members play an important role in the lives of seniors aging in place. In order to best serve a family member aging in place, there are a few factors to consider to ensure they stay safe and thriving.

For family members of seniors aging in place, the primary concern will, of course, be keeping the senior(s) safe. Here is a collection of resources to help do so.

Help with home modification – A senior family member may need help making certain home modifications. Some adjustments, such as checking for tripping hazards or changing light bulbs, will be easy. Others, like checking ventilation systems and making sure chimneys are clean, may require professional help. This comprehensive checklist helps family members assess their aging senior's home to find out which modifications will be necessary.

Provide assistance when needed – There are many ways family members can assist aging in place loved ones to help keep them safe at home, but it's important that it not seem like family members are trying to take over. After all, seniors aging in place choose to do so because they value their independence. This list of tips helps family members navigate when and how to provide assistance.

Understand what level of care the family member needs – As previously mentioned, aging at home seniors value their independence. And because they value their independence, they may not always ask for help when it is needed. It is important for caregivers of seniors aging in place to be able to assess the level of care the senior needs.

Use technology – From staying in touch to managing medicines and medical appointments to keeping a loved one safe, technology can make aging in place easier to manage for seniors and their family members. Here's a list of tips and options to consider.

Use a home visit checklist – Home visits are valuable opportunities to assess how an aging in place family member is doing. This comprehensive checklist teaches caregivers what to look for. For example:
  ✔   Is the refrigerator well stocked?
  ✔   Are prescriptions up to date?
  ✔   Have the family member(s) gone out recently?
Following it will help family members ensure that everything is going smoothly and to find solutions when problems exist.

  As a family member of a senior aging in place, the best steps to take are those that help improve the family member's wellbeing. Here are a few tips on how to do so.
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Keep lines of communication open – Family members need to have an open and honest relationship to ensure an aging in place senior will feel comfortable sharing their needs. Here are valuable tips to help family members communicate effectively with aging in place seniors.

Know where important documents are kept – Knowing where important documents, like social security cards, birth certificates, Medicare and other insurance information, are located can help family members of seniors aging in place save time and money.  

Prevent loneliness – If an aging in place senior will be living alone, it's important that family members help them stay active and engaged with others so that they don't get lonely.

Sometimes it’s easy to know when your older parent needs home care services; after a stroke or surgery, it’s pretty obvious that assistance will be needed with daily activities and hygiene. It’s more difficult when the need isn’t so prominent. People are notorious for being independent and stubborn about asking for help well past the point of their own comfort and safety, so it may be up to their family and friends to bring up the subject.

Expect some resistance when you tell a loved one there’s a need for senior care. It’s difficult to go from being the person who took care of everyone in the family to being the one who needs care. Even if you mention things you’ve noticed, they may brush them off as one-time occurrences, or “just your imagination.” That’s why it’s important to take note of actions and behaviors over time, so you can build a case. Get support from other people around the person, such as family members, friends, or neighbors. A person won’t notice their own decline, but when presented with evidence of actions over time, it won’t be seen as a case of “you just want me out of the way.” Here are several “red flags” that indicate a need for some type of home health care.

Changes in Mental Function

• Difficulties keeping track of time;
• Sleeping more than usual;
• Losing interest in hobbies or activities;
• Mood swings;
• Confusion or uncertainty when performing familiar tasks;
• Forgetfulness, especially missing or taking wrong doses of medications;
• Missing important appointments;
• Consistently using poor judgement, such as falling for email schemes.

Physical Changes

• Weight loss or poor diet;
• Difficulty getting up from seated positions;
• Problems with balance, mobility, and walking;
• Unexpected bruising or injuries;
• Wear marks on walls and furniture from using them for balance.

Changes in Personal Hygiene and Home Care

• Unexplained dents and scratches in the car;
• Little or no fresh, healthy food in the refrigerator;
• Unpleasant body odor due to infrequent bathing;
• Strong smell of urine on clothing or in the house;
• Lack of attention to personal appearance (dirty clothes, untrimmed nails, unbrushed hair);
• Unopened mail, late payment notices, and bounced checks;
• Utilities turned off due to missed payments;
• Dirty home and piles of unwashed clothes;
• Spoiled food that isn’t thrown away.

These signs don’t necessarily mean that your loved one needs to be moved into an assisted living facility or nursing home. It just means that regular daily activities may be a little too much for them for whatever reason, and they might need a little bit of help. How much help depends on the individual and their health conditions. Someone who can’t bend and reach to scrub anymore but is otherwise fine will do well with weekly cleanings. Someone with vision issues might just need rides to the store and appointments. Someone who can’t get into a bathtub without assistance or is unable to comprehend why the electric bill must be paid every month needs in-home care on a regular basis. There are a wide variety of options for senior caregivers these days, so it pays to do research and find out what’s available for your particular situation. A small amount of assistance now for your loved one will prevent a larger issue from developing, such as a broken bone from a fall, that could mean a permanent trip to a nursing facility.

When the time comes to look for caring, compassionate senior caregivers whom you can trust with your loved one, there’s only one name you need to remember – Assisting Hands Home Care. We know this is a challenging time for families, so we do our part by making sure our caregivers are carefully screened and trained to provide sensitive and confidential home care assistance. We work with each family to create a plan just for their loved one that details all types of assistance needed. We can help with meal preparation, light housekeeping, shopping, and companionship. For people with more needs, we offer senior care that includes bathing assistance, restroom use, incontinence care, and personal appearance care. Our skilled caregivers do everything possible to help your loved one age in the comfort and privacy of their own home for as long as possible, and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve.


Source: ​https://www.elderly-homecare.com/signs-senior-needs-help-home/

Long-distance caregivers place a lot of trust in doctors, nurses and other aides. Since they are your boots on the ground, you want to make sure that your loved one’s health — physical, mental and emotional — is as much of a priority to them as it is to you. That can be hard, but it is not impossible.

An aging loved one requires a lot of attention — you’ll be the one making decisions, solving problems and making them comfortable. How can you make sure to take care of all of that when you live in a different state, across the country or even internationally?

This guide will help you navigate through the decisions you’ll make as a long-distance caregiver, such as:

• Communicating with providers
• Choosing in-home caregivers
• Managing in-home care
• Making final arrangements and end-of-life decisions

Your loved one’s care staff, from their primary care physician to their nursing assistants, are your eyes and ears when you live far away. You want to build a positive, personal relationship with doctors, aides, nurses, physical therapists, drivers and companions.

Weekly, if not daily, communication is crucial in helping you monitor your senior’s health and well-being. Talking to each one regularly will not only help paint a holistic picture of your loved one’s well-being, but will also give you strong allies in their care.

If you want to build rapport and ensure they will advocate on your behalf, take the time to:

• Get to know the individual roles they play in your loved one’s care. For instance, if they are in a nursing home or assisted living facility, understand the difference in the job duties of a nurse and a certified nursing assistant.
• Understand and empathize with any challenges they face with your loved one, such as if their doctor has a hard time getting them to manage their diabetes or their in-home caregiver struggles to get them to go out for walks.
• Find out how much they know about your loved one outside of conversations related to their duties. For example, ask the driver what kinds of conversations he or she has with your aging senior when driving around.
• Know the primary contacts. For example, perhaps the nurse is a more reliable point of contact that the doctor.
• Be an active listener. Ask questions that require more than one-word answers, and summarize back to the speaker the information they have shared so you are confident you understand correctly.
• Show gratitude for their help. Yes, you are paying them for their services, but they are more likely to take their job to the next level and go above and beyond for you and your loved one if you regularly show appreciation for all they do.

Chances are that you’ll have a variety of people to communicate with. These basic techniques can go along way with communication, but there will be other decisions you have to make as well.

Hiring in-home caregivers to assist may be a long-distance caregiver’s best option for ensuring the safety and well-being of a loved one. Some seniors struggle with this idea in the beginning, but if you empower them to be an active partner in the process, you can work through their resistance.

The idea is to get them involved — maybe even excited — to welcome a new caregiver into the home. When it comes to looking for an in-home aide, there is no shortage of options. You may need someone to help with medical needs, housework, yard work, maintenance or simply to serve as a social companion.

Encourage your loved one to work with you on the decision by:

• Asking them to make a pros and cons list to help prioritize their needs and wants and act as a roadmap for the decision-making process.
• Interviewing candidates together and encouraging them to ask their own questions, share a meal together, go on a walk together, or participate in an activity together.
• Searching for a balance between the independence they want and the care they need.
• Ensuring the in-home aide gives them a sense of safety and security.
• Making sure the caregiver has access to transportation so your loved one can get out into the community and maintain a sense of freedom.

Considering the distance, your concern for your senior loved one’s care might motivate you to move through the search quickly. However, if your loved one feels rushed, they may feel as if this isn’t their decision after all. Don’t let their resistance turn into procrastination.

Most seniors are more comfortable in their homes. There are a lot of contingencies to consider with in-home care, including if your loved one needs round-the-clock care and making sure their home is accessible. With in-home care, you’ll want to take charge of:
•   Protecting your senior from slips and falls by installing handrails and no-slip flooring.
•   Moving all essential rooms and belongings down to the ground floor, if the home has more than one level.
•   Build a relationship with reliable contractors to help with:

1. House cleaning,
2. Yard work, or
3. Handyman repairs or maintenance.

•   Considering downsizing to a smaller place that is easier to manage and costs less for utilities.
•   Explore the cost of installing chair lifts or building ramps for seniors with mobility issues in homes with stairs.
•   Painting walls, floors and countertops contrasting colors for those with vision impairments.
•   Making sure all alarms — from fire to security — are working and regularly tested. Be sure the alarm company knows you are the point of contact.

Living arrangements are important conversations to have with your loved one, and you should make decisions about them together. Knowing they are safe, secure and well-cared for makes living at a distance less stressful.

Other decisions, including those that are much more difficult to discuss, need to be shared if you want to be on the same page about all your loved one’s options.

Talking about end-of-life decisions is an uncomfortable conversation to have. In many ways, you are holding the mirror of mortality to a senior’s face and asking them to take a long, hard look. It’s not always easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard.

Explain to your aging friend or family member that making hospice decisions and final arrangements now can ensure they are remembered the way they want to be. Also, since you live at a distance, it will help you make decisions and arrangements quickly, instead of having to navigate the situation blindly and in grief.

Some topics you need to be sure you touch on include:

• What they want done with their remains — burial, cremation, donation to medicine or another option.
• Charities they would like their furniture and other belongings donated to.
• Preparing wills, endowments, finances and estates.
• Their preferred style of funeral and/or memorial service.
• Pre-paying for final arrangements.
• Their understanding of a do not resuscitate (DNR) directive, and their wishes surrounding one if they were to go into hospice or emergency care.

Discussing final arrangements is hard, especially if finances are a concern. Remember to be compassionate and take your time. These decisions don’t have to happen all at once.

The long-distance caregiver is a role that many adult children, close friends and family members face. Some days, this role is more taxing than rewarding, but don’t feel guilty or inadequate. Long-distance caregiving can go smoothly for both of you if you connect with caregivers, plan for final arrangements, and choose the right retirement facility or closely manage in-home care.

Source: https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/long-distance-caregiving/

It’s no surprise that aging in place design has become a hot topic as of late. The aging population in North America is on the rise, with seniors in Canada projected to increase from 4.5 million to 9.8 million between 2005 and 2036, and seniors in the U.S. projected to reach 98 million by 2060.

Before going into the aging in place design checklist for each specific room, here’s a list of the overall rules you should follow when designing a space for accessibility and safety. These rules apply to any room, including the general layout of the house.

• Open floor plan with few obstructions
• New lighting systems
• Larger windows
• Specific colors (proper contrasting to aid with depth perception)
• No-step entries
• Wider doorways (min. 36 inches)
• No throw rugs (tripping hazard)
• Ramp installation
• Lever-style door handles

It is extremely important to customize a bathroom for someone who is aging or has disabilities because bathrooms are prone to causing accidents. Due to their ceramic flooring and slippery surfaces, bathrooms are the cause of roughly 235,000 nonfatal injuries in the U.S. alone per year.

• Adjusting toilet height or installing a seat extender
• Grab bars near toilet and in bath/shower
• Shower seat
• Anti-slip coating in tub/shower
• Slip-resistant floor treatment
• Walk-in shower/tub
• Handheld showerhead

When re-designing a kitchen for the elderly, you want to ensure ease of use and fluidity. You should not install cabinets that your client cannot reach, and you need to make sure all appliances are properly positioned so that your client doesn’t have to move around too much.

• Adjusting height of sink
• Shallow sink
• Hands-free faucet
• Pull-out pantry
• Storage inside refrigerator door
• Front-mounted controls on cooktop
• D-shaped cabinet pulls
• Under-cabinet lighting
• Round edges for countertops
• Sink close to stove
• Large drawers
• Microwave at counter height

Getting in and out of bed and getting dressed can be a hassle for anyone who has a disability or for elderly people with back or hip problems. Home designers should consider all these factors when designing a bedroom for aging in place.

• Bedroom on main level
  
• Low-profile bed (20-23” from top of mattress to the floor)
• Nightstands placed at same height as bed
• Bed rail
• Phone beside bed
• Adequate clearance around bed
• Pull-down closet rods
• Lighting in closet

This aging in place design checklist wouldn’t be complete without tips for designing a laundry room. Doing laundry for the mobility-impaired is difficult as it is, so you should design the room as best you can to ensure an easy and smooth process.

• Laundry room near bedroom
• Front load washer and dryer
• Washer & dryer raised 12-15 inches above floor
• Easy to read controls
• Lower upper cabinets
• Pull-down shelving
• Laundry chute if multi-level house

• Easy-to-maintain plants/shrubbery
• Longer lasting LED lights
• Clear pathway between bedroom and bathroom
• Chair lift on stairs

For more information on aging in place, visit the Living in Place Institute website.


Source: ​https://www.2020spaces.com/blog-aging-in-place-design-checklist/

When seniors and their loved ones start thinking about retirement living, one of the first questions that comes to mind is, “How much is it going to cost?” Just like any other major life change, it’s easier to make plans when you know what to expect. If you’ve looked into retirement homes at all, you probably already know that there are a good number of options to choose from. And because each type of senior living arrangement offers different levels of care, you can expect costs to vary as well. 

In 2018, the national median cost of assisted living was $4,000 per month. The median cost of a nursing home was $7,441 for a semi-private room and $8,365 per month for a private room. These figures represent the United States as a whole, but costs can be higher or lower depending on the region and even the city where you live. For example, the cost of senior living is typically higher in bigger cities than smaller cities or rural areas. You can also expect to pay more for a senior home in the north than in the southern US. For specific costs in your area, there are online tools that allow you to search for detailed information by state and metro region.

Assisted living centers and nursing homes are the two most common choices for senior living, but they certainly aren’t the only ones. Seniors and their family members should get to know what all of their options are. That way, you can get a better picture of what each type of arrangement costs, as well as what those costs cover.

Retirement Communities: The cost to own or rent is similar to the cost of other homes in the same area. Keep in mind that these communities may have additional fees to cover exterior maintenance and other shared amenities.
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Sometimes called 55 and older communities, these are residential developments that cater specifically to seniors. Depending on the community, you may live in an apartment, condo, or even a single family home. In this type of community, you maintain your own home while having access to shared amenities, which can include everything from outdoor spaces to pools and fitness centers. These communities are ideal for seniors who don’t need the care that’s provided by assisted living or nursing homes, but who appreciate the convenience and senior-friendly design these residences offer.

Independent Living Communities: $1,500 to $6,000 per month
Independent living communities are very similar to 55 and older communities: they are made up of individual residences (apartments, condos, or single family) and include shared amenities and exterior maintenance. The primary difference is that these communities also have additional services, which can include meals, housekeeping, and group activities, just to name a few. The benefit of these communities is that they allow you to live independently, and at the same time, more of your everyday needs are easy to access on-site. However, just like 55 and older communities, independent living communities do not provide assistance with daily living or nursing care.
As with other senior living options, the cost of these communities varies by location. Another reason the cost can vary is that some provide only basic amenities, while others have more luxurious, resort-style amenities.

Assisted Living: $4,000 per month

In an assisted living center, residents may live in a small apartment, or they may have a shared or private room. You typically have more common spaces than an independent living community, including shared dining and recreation areas. These facilities take care of all meals and housekeeping, and they provide assistance with daily activities and help managing medications.
Assisted living options have evolved, and some facilities even have areas dedicated to memory care. Because some facilities provide higher levels of care, often for an additional fee, it’s important to make sure you know exactly what is provided to avoid paying extra for care you don’t need.

Semi-private room: $7,695 per month
Private room: $8,365 per month

Nursing homes are best for seniors who need skilled nursing care in addition to assistance with daily living. Patients with advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s may also need the help that a nursing home provides. Because of the higher level of care, which is available 24/7, nursing homes are more expensive than other senior living options.

Average entrance fee is $60,000 – $120,000 (can be higher in some cases), plus $500 – $3,000 per month in maintenance fees

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) comes with the highest price tag, but it also gives seniors more options for care all in one location. These communities have units for independent living, but they also allow residents to transition into assisted living or nursing facilities as they get older and their needs change.

The benefit of choosing a CCRC is that you can stay in a familiar setting while continuing to get whatever level of care you need. Moving into a CCRC is a big investment, however, so you want to make sure it’s the best fit for your situation. There are three primary types of contracts for CCRCs, and these can make a major difference in what you end up paying.

One of the hardest things about choosing a senior home is that you can’t know exactly what your needs will be down the road. Even though you can’t see into the future, knowing your options — and what you can expect each to cost — is a good starting point for making the right plan. Cost is only one of many factors to consider when looking at senior living, but it is one that can have a major impact on your decision.

Source: ​https://modernretirement.org/how-much-does-a-senior-home-cost/

The biggest expense for seniors is housing. In addition to having a place to live, most seniors require more advanced care. This ranges in cost, level of care, and supervision. On one end of the spectrum, there is adult daycare, which is a low-cost program in which seniors receive daytime socialization and supervision. At the other end, there is nursing home care and in-home care. This is the highest level of care with 24/7 supervision by a registered nurse, along with rehabilitation services.
Other high-cost senior living options include a retirement community where individual seniors rent or own housing properties. This community provides specialized services, such as on-site chefs, valet drivers, organized social activities, and onsite emergency care. Along these same lines are continuing care retirement communities.
Here is a breakdown of the three main types of senior living services that are most commonly utilized by seniors:

• Retirement communities include senior apartments that provide total freedom but social access with other seniors; senior co-op in which seniors live in a community and share the costs of services; and independent living communities for seniors who want to enjoy senior activities and 24/7 emergency care, but still retain their own living environment.
• Assisted living facilities provide seniors with more personal, one-on-one care and often include personal care services, such as hygiene, transportation, medication, finances, and entertainment.
• Respite care, dementia/Alzheimer’s care, and hospice care are all in-home senior care services focused on a specific situation. For example, with dementia/Alzheimer’s care a patient requires a skilled nurse trained in helping seniors with this condition. Hospice care is an end-of-life in-home senior living service that helps seniors and families remain comfortable while transitioning to the final stage of life.

When handling the finances for senior living, the first goal is to choose the type of housing arrangement(s) that will best serve the senior’s needs. Keep in mind in most instances a senior will transition to more than one type of senior living arrangement in their lifetime. By understanding the options available for seniors, you can identify senior living services that fit your budget and level of care needs. Now let’s discuss all of the ways you can financially afford senior living.

The first place most people look for financial support for seniors is via a retirement savings account. If your senior worked for an employer at any time since the 1970s, they may have a retirement fund. You will need to find the documents containing the account number and related information to access this account. Here are some of the most common types of retirement accounts in the US:

• 401k
• 403b
• 457b
• Thrift Savings Plan
• IRA

A 401k is the most common type of retirement plan because it is available to employees at their workplace. The 403b plan is also referred to as a TSA or tax-sheltered annuity. This type of plan is available to select ministers, nonprofit organization employees, and public school employees. Good to know, if the enrolled individual is over 50 they can make catch-up contributions of up to $6,000 annually.

A 457b retirement plan is available to employees of schools, hospitals, churches, or charities run by local or state governments. The Thrift Savings Plan is part of the Federal Employees Retirement System. This is available for those in civil service or members of the military.

IRAs are discussed later on.

What is the Cost of Nursing Homes? 
The average cost for a private room in a nursing home in 2016 was $92,000 annually, based on information gathered by Genworth Financial. This works out to about $253 per day—an increase of 1.2 percent from the previous year. Since Medicare-certified nursing facilities make up over 90 percent of facilities around the United States, the following national average costs for Medicare senior care should be taken into account:

• Home Health Care – $693
• Adult Day Care – $1,492
• Assisted Living – $3,600
• Homemaker Services – $3,721
• Home Health Care – $3,812
• Semi-Private Nursing Home – $6,692
• Private Nursing – $7,604

For seniors who were financially successful in their working years, received sizable inheritances, or were in the military—these all provide other means of financial support. Let’s start with seniors who had financial means in life. These individuals are more likely to have purchased their own home or to own real estate. Here are five types of personal finance options available to select groups of seniors:

• Reverse mortgage
• Real estate ownership
• Marketplace investments
• IRA
• Veterans’ programs

For homeowners, there is the option to take out a reverse mortgage to pay for financial costs in one’s senior years. A reverse mortgage is a financial agreement with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to exchange the equity of a home for payments. This is mostly used as a form of supplement retirement income and is only available for homeowners 62 years and older.

When the senior homeowner passes away, the surviving heirs must repay the mortgage loan in order to keep the house. The heirs have six months after the homeowner’s death to start making loan payments.

For seniors who own real estate, this can be a stable form of income. Real estate properties with dwellings can be rented out for an income. Additionally, the property can be sold to help cover financial expenses of seniors.

Another form of personal investment along the lines of real estate is market investments. This includes purchasing stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. With each of these investments, a senior can increase their income through interest income and/or investment dividends.

An IRA falls into this category. While an IRA is a type of retirement savings plan, as noted earlier, it is based on investments. An IRA is established at a bank or brokerage firm. It involves investments in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash deposits. There are two main types of IRAs—Traditional and Roth. Each type of IRA differs in the amount that an individual can invest and withdraw annually without penalty.
​
Finally, the last type of personal finance option for discussion is for seniors who were in the military. Veterans’ programs, such as Veteran’s Pension for those over 65 and Veteran’s Disability pension for wartime vets who can no longer work. Aid and Attendance is another form of veterans’ benefits available for vets in a nursing home, who are blind, is bedridden, or requires aid for daily tasks of living. Aid and Attendance is only available to veterans who are also receiving Veteran’s Pension or Veteran’s Disability.

Keeping accurate track of bills and records can become more difficult as a person gets older—but it’s just as important as it ever was, if not more so.

How to Prevent Identity Theft
Seniors are often more vulnerable to fraud and identity theft than other groups of people. If it does happen, you’re better equipped to catch it immediately and take steps to get it resolved if you keep thorough and accurate records.

If you’re caring for a senior who isn’t equipped to deal with their own finances anymore, one important thing to do for them is to look at their credit card and bank statements thoroughly each month to see if there are any dubious charges. Everyone is also legally entitled to four free credit reports every year. By taking advantage of this, you can be alerted sooner to any significant changes to their credit score, which could be an indication that someone else is using their identity.

How to Locate Bills and Records 
When a family assumes responsibility of their parents’ affairs, it’s necessary to gather copies of all significant records, such as their birth certificate, state ID, social security card, marriage certificates, any applicable death certificates (such as for a deceased spouse), tax returns, and military records. These records are necessary for Medicare, social security benefits, and a host of other things. Hopefully, they’ve kept them filed in a secure place that you can access easily. If not, you’ll need to obtain replacements.

Most of these can be obtained by contacting the vital records office of the state where they were born, got married, etc. For military records, contact the military division of the National Personnel Records Center.

How to Locate Citizenship Paperwork
If the senior citizen in question wasn’t born in the United States, then you’ll also need proof of citizenship for them. If they were born to U.S. citizens, then they’ll need a Certificate of Citizenship. If they immigrated to this country and became naturalized citizens, then they’ll need a Certificate of Naturalization. In some cases, a valid U.S. passport will also work as proof of citizenship.

Again, hopefully they have this necessary paperwork filed somewhere, but if not, you’ll need to go to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service and fill out Form N-565 to be issued a replacement.

How to Locate Pension and Social Security Benefits
If you or someone you’re caring for is supposed to receive a pension from an old job, there’s documentation for that too—and losing it can cause more problems than you may realize. While it’s not the end of the world, losing your pension documentation can hinder your ability to collect Social Security benefits. Plus, you’re missing out on money that you’re entitled to. If you have, or think you have, a pension that you’re not collecting on, here are some steps to take to find it:

1. Contact Your Previous Employer – Unions that are closely tied with your former employer’s company may now take control of the pension plan.
2. Contact Insurance and Financial Companies – In some cases, the assets contained in a pension plan might be passed on to an insurance company or financial institution.
3. Contact the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation – If contacting the responsible parties directly doesn’t work, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation helps you get the matter sorted out. They’re an independent agency of the U.S. government that insures defined benefit pension plans, and can pay you what you’re entitled to, even if the pension is lost or cancelled. We’ll discuss them more in a later section.

Eldercare Costs
The cost of elder care totally depends on what kind of services an elderly person requires, as well as where they are located. Let’s take a look at some averages:

1. Continuing Care Retirement – $50-$200 per hour for 20-40 hours’ worth of work per week.
2. Non-Medical Home Care – Provided by Home Care Aides, this non-medical assistance is priced at $15-$26 per hour based on the 2015 national average.
3. Home Health Care – Also offered by Home Health Aides, this type of health care involves the use of medical equipment for monitoring respiration, temperature, pulse, etc. The 2015 national average was $16-$27 per hour.
4. Adult Day Care – Centers offering adult day care services provided assistance for $35-$124 per day, based on the 2015 national average.
5. Care Planning and Management – A Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) would usually charge Communities (CCRCs) – Somebody who lives in this type of residents for skilled nursing/independent living/assisted living would pay $60,000-$120,000 as an entrance fee, followed by a monthly maintenance cost of $400-$2,500.
6. Senior Living/Assisted Living – Social/recreational activities and basic health services were priced at $3,600 per month as of 2015. However, prices vary per state and so, the state averages varied from $2,525-$5,745.

Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER)
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to improving long-term financial quality of life for women. The institute aims to assist females in finding investment solutions that work for their healthcare needs.

PrimePlus Services/AICPA Eldercare
These professional services are both customizable and unique. Elder planning services of this kind will come in handy for anyone who is transitioning in some way, whether it involves launching a business, planning for retirement, or something else.

A primary concern for caregivers of seniors is medical expenses. As we age health issues become more prevalent, as well as increasingly costly. In addition, seniors are far more likely to require additional care with everyday tasks. Assisted living facilities, senior communities, and nursing homes provide this care, but for a high price tag. This is where personal health insurance coverage comes in. Here are the five most common forms of personal health insurance:

Health Insurance
The most common type of health insurance is private health care coverage from an insurance company. This medical insurance is sourced from the individual and can include prescription drug coverage, as well as dental and vision care. It does not include Medicare; that is a government-backed health care plan we will discuss in the next section. For seniors who are over 50 but not yet 65, they may have private health care sourced through their employer or from the Affordable Care Act.

Annuities
This is a long-term investment that an insurance company will issue as a way of protecting your finances. Your contributions will reduce the risk of outliving income. First, you purchase an annuity and contribute money to it, while you have a steady income. Then, in your retirement, you receive regular payments on what you’ve contributed, which will theoretically last the rest of your life.

Life Insurance
You may think that buying life insurance in your 60s is futile. After all, the older you get, the higher risk you are. But there are certain policies you can still obtain which cater to seniors and don’t require a medical exam.
In particular, you may want to look into term life insurance policies, which pay out if you die within a specified period of time—usually 10, 15, or 20 years, depending on your age when you purchase it. Shop around and gather as many quotes as possible to find affordable coverage options that meet your needs.

LTC Insurance
Long-term care insurance, better known as LTC or LTCI, is a type of insurance product sold in the United States, as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. Included in coverage is personal/adult day care services, nursing home care, and home health care for ages 65 or above.

Viaticals
When life insurance is converted to fund elder care, it will be considered a viatical settlement. This type of life settlement is the perfect solution for assisting an elderly person living at home. It can also be used to fund long-term care expenses, medical expenses, or bills. Approximately 60-90 percent of the policy’s face value can be netted by the policyholder, who will receive payments in one lump sum.

Organizations Working Towards LTC Reform

The older you get, the more help you need with various facets of your regular routine. And the longer you live, the more likely you are to require long term care, such as in a hospital or nursing home. This can include medical care, as well as help with day to day tasks.

Of course, this costs money, and many people who need these services don’t have enough to pay for them. You can buy LTC insurance, as discussed above, but even that isn’t always practical. That’s where LTC reform comes in. There are a number of organizations, both public and private, around the country, and around the world, dedicated to helping people get the care they need, such as…

• The Florida Council on Aging
• National Academy on an Aging Society
• American Society on Aging
• Canada National Advisory Council on Aging
• Global Action on Aging
• Age Concern of England
• And many others

​Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys (AFELA)
This non-profit association works with older clients in the state of Florida. Founded back in 1993, the AFELA is a law firm that assists seniors in dealing with payments/affairs for long-term Medicaid care.

Georgia Association of Community Care Providers (GACCP)
The members working at GACCP provide a single/several types of services, including home delivered meals, personal support services, emergency response system, and alternative living services. The association operates on a Code of Ethics to ensure the Medicaid services are of the highest standard.

Department of Human Services of Hawaii 
The mission of this organization is to provide elderly individuals with efficient programs, benefits, and services in a timely manner. Benefit fraud, neglect, and abuse reports are three things that can be dealt with by the department.

Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
Senior and disabilities services are offered through the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. As the primary public program for long-term care and health financing, elderly individuals can rely on this department for public assistance with Medicaid.

Medicare HMOs
A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is different to original Medicare in the sense that in an HMO, a co-payment (fixed amount) is paid for services. Health care cannot be provided from just any healthcare provider, doctor, or hospital with HMO plans. Instead, the care must be received from health care professionals operating within the network.

Medicare Reform
Although the budget has been cut for Medicare reform, people receiving Medicare are not affected in terms of the benefits they receive. The budget agreement will cut Medicare savings by $100 billion over the next five years. The downside is that $15 billion in premiums will be collected from recipients over the next five years.

Medigap
This type of additional health insurance can be acquired from a private company. Medigap covers health care costs that would not be covered by the original plan, including deductibles and copayments.

​The Problem with Pensions
Pensions have become less common in recent years than they used to be. As an incentive to work at a particular company, many employers will set aside a retirement account for their employees, funded and managed by the company. Some unions provide this for their members as well.

Unfortunately, many employers later find that they are unable to fulfill the monetary obligations that they agreed to. Especially when the economy is less stable, employer-funded pensions are often more of a luxury. Instead, more and more common is the 401(k). Workers set aside money for their retirement out of their own pocket, which is deducted from each paycheck, up to a certain amount per year.

Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation
As we discussed earlier, the PBGC is an independent agency of the U.S. government, with the responsibility of making sure people get the pensions they’re entitled to. They provide pension insurance, so that if an employer no longer has the means to fulfill their obligations, the PBGC will cover the pension, which you can receive as either an annuity or a lump sum.
If you think you’re entitled to a pension, but aren’t sure, if it’s insured by PBGC, they can help you find it. A search engine on their site allows you to look for your pension by your name, or by the company’s name or address.

What are Reverse Mortgages?
Many retirees whose homes are paid off, but who are on a fixed income, choose to supplement their finances with a reverse mortgage. In this arrangement, a person aged 62 or older can take out a loan based on the equity in their home, but defer repayment until later. This can be after they’ve sold the property, or even after their death.

Once you’ve taken out the loan, there are several options for receiving the money. You can take it all at once, as a single, lump sum. You can receive small, monthly payments as a supplement to your existing income. You can use the money as a line of credit. Or you can do some combination of these options.

Pros and Cons of a Reverse Mortgage
A reverse mortgage can be a tremendous benefit, but it’s not without problems. If you’re having trouble getting by on your fixed income, it can give you the extra you need, with flexibility in how you receive that money. However, even though you’re not making payments, interest is still accruing, and continues to build up every month. And since this isn’t offset by regular mortgage payments, the amount you owe can continue growing, to the point that when the time does come for you or your loved ones to pay it off, the loan amount exceeds the actual value of your home.

This doesn’t mean that a reverse mortgage can’t be a viable option in certain circumstances. But it does mean that you should make sure to find an honest, reputable lender who will work to find the plan that’s right for you, and preventing you from ending up owing an arm and a leg down the road. The way to do this is to go through the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association. A nonprofit organization, they can help you find a reputable reverse mortgage lender to help meet your needs.

Social Security in the Modern Age

The original purpose of social security was to provide retirees, along with those whose disabilities prevent them from working, with a living wage. A portion of each paycheck goes towards the social security fund, and when you reach retirement age, you can collect benefits. You can collect partial benefits beginning at age 62, or full benefits at age 66.

Unfortunately, social security isn’t enough to provide a living wage for most people today. Cost of living increases don’t reflect the actual cost of living, and since more money is being paid out than is coming in, many experts worry that the fund will be depleted within a couple of decades.
Therefore, social security in the modern age shouldn’t be relied on as a complete income replacement, but rather as a supplement, alongside other income streams, such as a 401(k) or pension plan.

AICPA Eldercare/PrimePlus Services
Taxes are an important part of anyone’s finances. It’s no different for the elderly. Even if they’re not working a regular job anymore, they still have income that needs to be declared, such as the earnings from an IRA or a 401(k). Often, this income is exempt from taxes while you’re saving it up, but once you start collecting it, it must be declared, along with social security benefits, pensions, and any other income you may have.

Unfortunately, as people get older, they may find it increasingly difficult to file their taxes properly—particularly since the forms for retirement income are different from what they got used to filing during their working lives.
The simplest solution is to look into the AICPA’s (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) Eldercare and Prime Plus services. They provide CPAs to seniors to help them with a variety of financial issues, including taxes, along with end of life costs and other facets of eldercare, to make sure that you’re not left out in the cold.

U.S. Veterans Benefits Administration

If you’ve served in the military, then you may be entitled to certain VA benefits, including a pension, as well as disability benefits, health care, life insurance, and more. The U.S. Veterans Benefits Administration helps those who served their country, as well as the families of those who served, to obtain benefits and services that might be difficult to get otherwise.
If you think you’re entitled to specific benefits, check their website to see how to apply for them. You can also search to see if there’s a VA center in your area, which can provide you with a variety of medical and social services for a much lower cost than you would pay elsewhere.

Financial concerns can be a bit tricky as you get older—but they don’t have to be. There are plenty of options and organizations that can help you remain financially solvent and keep your affairs in order.

For financial support for seniors over 65, there are several sources of funding that are available via the state and federal governments. These include:

• Social Security retirement benefits
• Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
• Medicare Supplement Insurance

Social Security benefits for retirement are available at age 62. However, for seniors who wait until they reach full retirement age, they are eligible to earn more per month. The full retirement age ranges from 65 to 67 depending on when the senior was born. For individuals who were born prior to 1935, the age is 65, while those seniors born between 1943 to 1954 must be 66 to be considered fully retired.

This amount also varies according to how much the person earned over their lifetime. In 2015 the average payout per month for Social Security was $1,328, while the maximum payout for full retirement age was $2,663. On average an individual will receive $16,000 annually from Social Security benefits. If the individual has previously qualified and currently receives Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), then they will not be able to get Social Security retirement benefits in addition.

Medicare is the national social insurance program available to seniors over age 65. Individuals can also receive Medicare prior to turning 65 if they also receive Social Security Disability Insurance. Medicare comes in four different parts:

• Part A Hospital Insurance
• Part B Medical Insurance
• Part C Medicare Advantage
• Part D Prescription Drug Coverage

Most seniors will have Part A and Part B coverage. Medicare Part A is generally free as long as the individual paid Medicare taxes for a number of years while employed. Part A pays for inpatient care received in a hospital or nursing facility, and in the home in limited cases. Medicare Part B covers most doctor services and outpatient therapy. According to Medicare, individuals pay a standard amount annually as the premium, which is $137 in 2017. Once the premium is paid, the individual pays 20 percent of services including doctor visits, outpatient care, and medical equipment costs.

Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is a type of medical insurance used to cover costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. This is sold by private insurance companies. Medigap insurance coverage is used to pay for medical costs, such as medical costs outside of the US, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. To sign up for Medicare Supplement Insurance the senior must have both Part A and B of Medicare coverage, but they cannot have Medicare Advantage plan coverage.

We have discussed seniors who have been financially proficient in their working years. However, we have yet to discuss financial support for seniors who are living near or below the poverty line. According to the National Council on Aging, more than 25 million seniors age 60 and up are economically insecure. This means they are living on less than $29,425 a year, which causes financial stress when dealing with rising housing, food, energy, and transportation costs. Tack on the increased costs of medical care for seniors, and the financial issues for this socio-economic group become dire.

Thankfully there are several financial resources to support affordable senior living. These include:

• Social Security Income or SSI
• Medicaid
• Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly or PACE
• Nonprofit organizations
• Social networking tools

Social Security Income is a form of financial assistance available to low-income individuals age 65 and up, as well as those who are blind or disabled. SSI gives low-income seniors cash each month for them to pay for housing, food, and clothing. Can a senior receive Social Security benefits and SSI at the same time? Yes, if the individual has limited assets and resources, which when combined with Social Security benefits means they are still living below the poverty line.

Individuals who qualify for SSI will be automatically enrolled in Medicaid in most states. If the individual lives in a state that does not automatically enroll them in Medicaid, they will have to apply for this on their own. Medicaid enrollment is handled by local departments of family and children services. Unlike Medicare, Medicaid can be used to fund long-term care.

Medicaid is actually the largest financial source for long-term care in the US. For seniors who are financially in need, Medicaid and Medicare work together to provide a more comprehensive health care benefit. It also covers medical costs for seniors who were not able to take out private health care coverage or long-term care insurance in their adult years due to financial constraints.

Another form of comprehensive medical coverage for seniors is the Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. PACE offers medical and social services for seniors who are eligible for Medicaid. It is a program offered by Medicare and Medicaid to help cover expenses of seniors who want to stay within their community rather than going to an assisted living or nursing home.

• To qualify, the senior individual must be eligible to go into a nursing home, while still able to reside safety within their community.
• With PACE the senior gets all medical and social services from an integrated group of healthcare professionals.
• They no longer go through health care providers via Medicaid or Medicare, and PACE handles the financial services for the senior.

In addition, there are several nonprofit organizations that provide services for low-income seniors. One way to find these locally is through the Area Agency for Aging, which has regional offices nationwide. The Area Agency for Aging provides information regarding care and housing for seniors in need. For caregivers, the agency also offers free care guides and articles pertaining to topics, such as incontinence, Alzheimer’s disease, and sleep disorders for seniors.

We have covered all of the different ways in which you can provide financial support for seniors of most backgrounds. However, the key to making the most of this support is by planning ahead. Whether filing for Social Security or Medicare or utilizing interest income or real estate investments–you need to be prepared with all of the necessary paperwork. If you are a caregiver, or a senior yourself, start this process by gathering up all of the vital documents, certificates, account numbers, and even online passwords. Create a folder with all of this information so that whenever you are working toward a new form of financial support, you can streamline the process. This will alleviate stress and worry when trying to secure financial means, and it will also allow the senior to reap the benefits in a timely fashion.

Source: ​https://www.seniorliving.org/finance

3) Why do people need long-term care?
People often need long-term care when they have a serious, ongoing health condition or disability. The need for long-term care can arise suddenly, such as after a heart attack or stroke. Most often, however, it usually develops gradually, as people get older and frailer or as an illness or disability gets worse.

4) What is the most common type of long-term care?
The most common type of long-term care is personal care -- help with everyday activities, also called "activities of daily living." These activities include bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and moving around -- for example, getting out of bed and into a chair

5) How long does long-term care last?
Long-term care can last a short time or a long time. Short-term care lasts several weeks or a few months while someone is recovering from a sudden illness or injury. For example, a person may get short-term rehabilitation therapy at a nursing facility after hip surgery, then go home.

Long-term care can also be ongoing, as with someone who is severely disabled from a stroke or who has Alzheimer's disease. Many people can remain at home if they have help from family and friends or paid services. But some people move permanently to a nursing home or other type of facility if their needs can no longer be met at home.

6) How common is the need for long-term care among older people?
About 70 percent of people over age 65 need some type of long-term care during their lifetime. More than 40 percent need care in a nursing home for some period of time.

7) How can I tell if I will need long-term care?
It is difficult to predict how much or what type of long-term care you might need. Several things increase your risk of needing long-term care.

• Age -- The risk generally increases as you get older.
• Gender -- Women are at higher risk than men, primarily because they often live longer.
• Marital status -- Single people are more likely than married people to need care from a paid provider.
• Lifestyle -- Poor diet and exercise habits can increase your risk.
• Health and family history -- These factors also affect risk.

8) Who provides long-term care in the home?
It depends on a person's exact needs. Most home--based care is personal care, such as help with bathing, dressing, and taking medications. Unpaid family members, partners, friends, and neighbors provide most of this type of care. Other types of home-based care, such as skilled nursing care after surgery, are provided by paid professionals, including nurses, home health care aides, therapists, and homemakers.

9) What kind of help can I get while I recover from surgery at home?
You can get home health care -- part-time medical services ordered by a physician for a specific condition. These services may include nursing care as well as physical, occupational, or speech therapy. You can also get personal care, such as help with bathing and dressing, plus help with meal preparation and household chores. These services are available through unpaid family members and friends, paid caregivers found informally, and home health care agencies.

10) How do emergency response systems work?
Emergency response systems automatically respond to medical and other emergencies via electronic monitors. The user wears a necklace or bracelet with a button to push in an emergency. Pushing the button summons emergency help to the home. This type of service is especially useful for people who live alone or are at risk of falling.

11) I don't drive anymore. How can I get to doctors' appointments and the grocery store?
Community-based transportation services can help you get around. Some senior housing complexes and community groups offer transportation services. Many public transit agencies have services for people with disabilities. Some services are free. Others charge a fee. Call Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 or visit https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx to find a program in your community.

12) My mother has a disability and I care for her in my home, but I'm about to start a new job. Who will take care of her now?
Your mother may be able to attend an adult day service program, which provides health, social, and other services in a safe place, generally on weekdays. Such programs are designed for adults with mental or physical impairments. Some programs provide rides to and from their locations.

13) My father's Parkinson's disease is getting worse, and he can no longer live at home. What kind of facility is right for him?
Many people like your father, who require help full time, move to a residential facility to get all of the long-term care services they need. Some facilities have only housing and housekeeping, but many also provide personal care and medical services. Possibilities include adult foster care, board and care homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and continuing care retirement communities.

Which kind of facility is best for your father depends on his exact needs and financial situation. To get more information about facilities in your area, contact Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 or https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx. You can also call your local Area Agency on Aging, Aging and Disability Resource Center, department of human services or aging, or a social service agency.  

14) Is long-term care expensive?
It can be. Americans spend billions of dollars a year on various services. How much an individual pays depends on the type and amount of services provided, where he or she lives, whether family and friends can provide care, and which paid providers are used.

15) What does "out of pocket" mean?
"Out of pocket" means using personal funds. In the case of long-term care, many services are paid for out of pocket, at least in the beginning. Personal funds may include personal savings, a pension or other retirement fund, income from stocks and bonds, or proceeds from the sale of a home.

16) What kinds of options are available to pay for long-term care?
Most people don't have enough money to pay for all long-term care costs on their own, especially ongoing or expensive services like a nursing home. Often, they rely on a combination of resources to pay for care. These may include:

• personal funds
• government health insurance programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid
• private health insurance plans
• private financing options, such as long-term care insurance, life insurance policies, and reverse mortgages.

17) My wife needs part-time help at home. Will Medicare pay for that?
It depends on what kind of help your wife needs. Medicare covers some part-time services for people who are homebound, meaning that leaving home is a major effort. These services include skilled nursing care for a short time after a hospital stay; physical, occupational, and speech therapy; and medical social services. Medicare will also pay for medical supplies and medical equipment, such as walkers. However, Medicare will not pay for ongoing personal care. Medicare payment for services requires a doctor's order, and services must be given by a Medicare-approved provider.

18) Doesn't Medicare cover most long-term care costs?
No. Contrary to what many people think, Medicare does not cover most long-term care costs. It does pay for some part-time services for people who are homebound and for short-term skilled nursing care, but it does not cover ongoing personal care at home, like help with bathing. It may cover part of the first 100 days in a nursing home.

19) What long-term care costs does Medicaid cover?
Medicaid pays for health care services for people with limited income, and it is an important source of payment for long-term care services. Personal care, home health care, adult day care, and nursing home care are examples of the types of Medicaid-covered services used by older adults. However, Medicaid is not available to everyone. To be eligible, you must meet certain financial and health requirements. People with financial resources above a certain limit will most likely not qualify unless they first use up their own resources to pay for care, which is called "spending down." Who is eligible and what services are covered vary from state to state. (For more information about Medicaid coverage, see https://www.medicaid.gov/index.html.

20) I'm perfectly healthy. Why should I think about long-term care?
Maybe you will never need long-term care. But an unexpected accident, illness, or injury can change your needs, sometimes suddenly. The best time to think about long-term care is before you need it. Planning for the possibility of long-term care gives you time to learn about services in your community and what they cost. It also allows you to make important decisions while you are still able.

21) If I plan to stay in my own home, what support services will I need as I get older?
In thinking about long-term care, it is important to consider where you will live as you age and how your place of residence can best support your needs if you can no longer fully care for yourself.

Most people prefer to stay in their own home for as long as possible. When planning to receive long-term care in your home, there are many things to consider including

• the condition of your home
• whether it can be modified, if necessary, to accommodate a wheelchair or other devices/equipment
• the availability of long-term care services in your area, such as adult day care or nearby medical facilities
• how “age-friendly” your community is. Does it offer public transportation, home delivered meals and other needed services?
• tax and legal issues.

22) Is long-term care insurance a good option for me? I've heard it's expensive.
Long-term care insurance pays for many types of long-term care. The exact coverage depends on the type of policy. Some policies cover only nursing homes. Others cover a variety of services.

The cost of long-term care insurance does go up for people who are older, have health problems, or want more benefits. However, it can be a good choice for younger, relatively healthy people at low risk of needing long-term care.

23) What if something happens to me and I can't talk with a health care provider to make my wishes known?
Planning ahead can ensure that your wishes for medical care in an emergency and at the end of life are expressed. If you haven't already, you should create certain legal documents, often referred to as advance directives.

Health care power of attorney -- This document names the person who will make medical decisions for you if you cannot make them yourself.

Living will -- This document records your wishes for medical treatment near the end of life. It spells out what life-sustaining treatment you do or do not want if you are terminally ill, permanently unconscious, or in the final stage of a fatal illness.

Do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, if desired --This document tells health care providers not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or other life-support procedures if your heart stops or if you stop breathing.

24) Who can help me create the documents I need for long-term care planning?
You should first discuss what you want with family members. These discussions can be hard, but telling others your wishes ahead of time answers questions they might have later and takes the burden off your family. After that, lawyers and other professionals can help you create legal documents, or advance directives. These experts understand State laws and how changes, such as a divorce, move from your home, or death in the family, affect the way documents are prepared and maintained.

25) Are there professionals who can help me find the right kind of long-term care?
It can be difficult to find the right kind of long-term care services, but there are sources you can turn to for help with this task. For example, geriatric care managers are professionals, usually nurses or social workers, who help people with their long-term care needs. They can assess a person's needs, develop a plan of care, and identify and coordinate whatever services are needed. Contact the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 or visit https://eldercare.acl.gov for more information.

26) Where can I find more information about long-term care?
To get more information about long-term care programs and facilities in your area, contact Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 or visit https://eldercare.acl.gov. You can also visit www.LongTermCare.gov. Other resources you may wish to contact are your local Area Agency on Aging, Aging and Disability Resource Center, department of human services or aging, or a social service agency.

 
Article Source: Copyright © 2020 VirginiaNavigator; ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Source URL: https://www.virginianavigator.org
Last Reviewed: Thursday, December 12, 2019


Source: ​https://seniornavigator.org/article/12732/25-frequently-asked-questions-about-long-term-care

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