As we age, housing options need to be reviewed, especially if you have health problems. Will you need help with cleaning, cooking, bathing and home maintenance? What kind of t long term health care do you need? To make a plan, start first by checking your Medicare supplement insurance to determine what it covers.
In-Home Care
Medicare now covers some In-home health care, but often you need supplemental insurance too. In-home care is good for folks who are mobile and want to maintain their independence. Home health care nurses can come and visit you daily, or every couple of days, to take care of your medical needs. Consider hiring a housekeeper or a home health care aide to assit you with day-to-day living. Or a companion, driver, or cook. In-home health care is quite easy to find, check any senior center or ask your friends for referrals.
Retirement Communities
These communities often provide a multitude of services from meals to transportation for going to grocery stores, church and fun activities. These communities are usually all-inclusive,includinge lodging, meals, social events, and some health care.
Entrance fees can be expensive in addition to monthly fees, but, services usually are guaranteed for the rest of your life if you choose this option. If your health fails, you can always be moved to the nursing home portion of the facility.
Since this is usually an all-inclusive type of health care, carefully read the fine print carefully in the contract. What are all of the recurring and one-time fees? What exactly is covered s? What health care options are available , and which are not offered? Do you need to purchase extra health insurance to cover your specific care costs? Also don’t forget to check with the Better Business Bureau about the facility you are interested in; if you plan on living there the rest of your life, you should double check it’s reputation, too.
Nursing Homes
You may need a nuring home for a short period of time while you are recovering, or for a longer period of time as you age. Nursing homes cover almost all health care for the elderly or severely disabled. If this is an option that you think you may require,consider purchasing long term health care insurance. Before you go, research the history of the nursing home; are there any black spots on their record? Talk to people who have lived there, have used their services, or who are still living there now, to get their viewpoint.