Finding the right care for an elderly loved one, and then paying for that care are two totally different things. One of the big questions that senior care experts like to ask people when they are early on in their search addresses this discrepancy: once you find the right care for a loved one, what are you going to do about it? In other words, once you know what your loved one’s needs are, how are you going to pay for it?
If this is something that you haven’t put too much thought into, perhaps it’s time to change that. Finding care and paying for that care are both tough–and they require two different modes of thinking. Many families are overwhelmed by this discovery, and it can make planning for senior care a lot more difficult than it needs to be. Prepping yourself, and knowing where to turn when you need help, can make this part of life a lot easier. Working with a service that specializes in senior care, like Paradise In-Home Care, can help.
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The very best place to start, if you haven’t yet, is to figure out what care needs you are up against. Is dementia present? Is your loved one in a wheelchair? Are there special dietary needs? These are the kinds of questions that you should be asking, and then matching up your answers with the different types of care that are out there. You’ll be surprised to see that your search is a lot more focused.
Next, look at the tools you have available for paying for care. Medicare and Medi-Cal will likely be included in your list. They’re not the only resources here, be thorough in this search, it might save you a lot of money.
Many find that even though their loved one has insurance–even long term care insurance–there are a lot of hoops to jump through in order to get their care covered. Again, the sooner you start the process, the easier it will be. Senior care is complicated, and health insurance of any sort is even more so. It is not something that anyone enjoys, but it’s something that is necessary.
Research can make life easier. If you know the proper procedures for getting care approved, or what your insurance companies policies are regarding what’s accepted and what’s not, you are starting off with an advantage.
Most people over the age of 65 today will need long term care at some point in their lives. Ten years ago, the statistics said that 50 percent would require care in their lifetime. Today, that number is as high as 70 percent. People are living longer, and care is more and more necessary as people age. Those with disabilities and health conditions that require assistance are living longer lives, and they need help as they do. Senior care is becoming more important. Having a plan in place for your family and yourself is essential if you want your loved ones to have as easy of a time with their care as possible.
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