What Is a Long-Term Care Facility?

Long-term care facilities offer medical services and provide personal support to seniors or other adults who are no longer able to live independently or care for themselves. These facilities are typically needed by seniors and patients with chronic illnesses. Services may also be offered in a patient's home in certain cases. 

If you're in need of coverage to help pay for the services provided by a long-term care facility, an independent insurance agent can help you find the right long-term care insurance. Your agent will ensure you get set up with the appropriate amount of coverage. But first, here's an overview of long-term care facilities and why they're necessary. 

Table of Contents

Q. What Is a Long-Term Care Facility, and Does My Long-Term Care Insurance Cover It?
Q. Who Needs Long-Term Care?
Q. What Are the Different Types of Long-Term Care Facilities?
Q. How Much Does Long-Term Care Cost?
Q. How Do You Choose the Right Long-Term Care Facility?
Q. What Are the Benefits of Long-Term Care Facilities?
Q. Are There Alternatives to Long-Term Care Facilities?
Q. How Can an Independent Insurance Agent Help?

What Is a Long-Term Care Facility, and Does My Long-Term Care Insurance Cover It?

A long-term care (LTC) facility provides medical services and other assistance with daily living activities for seniors and patients with chronic illnesses. These services may be provided in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing facilities, or continuing care retirement communities. LTC services can also be offered in a patient's home by home health aides. 

Your long-term care insurance is designed to cover the services provided by an LTC facility. You'll need to review the specifics of your policy to be certain it covers the services at the facility you want to use. Common services provided by LTC facilities that can be covered by long-term care insurance include:

LTC facilities differ from short-term care facilities because they offer services for an extended period of time, typically 12 months or longer. These facilities also differ from acute care facilities because the services provided don't have a defined outcome, such as treatment for serious illnesses, diseases, and injuries. 

Who Needs Long-Term Care?

Many people need long-term care as they age, often due to chronic conditions or disabilities. Seniors are the most common candidates for long-term care services and coverage. However, it can be beneficial to purchase long-term care insurance when you're still in your 50s to get set up with lower premium rates than if you wait until you're older and have health issues. 

What Are the Different Types of Long-Term Care Facilities?

A long-term care facility can include any of the following:

Nurses and health aides from LTC facilities can also offer services in a patient's home when necessary or preferred. Research the various types of long-term care facilities to determine which is right for you.

How Much Does Long-Term Care Cost?

The average cost of long-term care varies by facility and treatment type. The level of care you receive and your location can also influence costs. You can help cover your LTC costs with long-term care insurance. 

Average monthly cost of long-term care services 

How Do You Choose the Right Long-Term Care Facility?

You'll want to consider several criteria when choosing the right long-term care facility for you, such as:

Be sure to research all of these details about each LTC facility you're considering before making your choice. It's critical to choose a facility with proper licensing and mostly positive patient reviews. Factors such as meal quality may be more subject to personal opinion, but cleanliness and safety are likely to be a top priority for most individuals. 

What Are the Benefits of Long-Term Care Facilities?

LTC facilities can provide many benefits, including 24/7 care for individuals in need of constant professional supervision and assistance. These facilities also offer opportunities for social interaction between seniors who may not otherwise have access to them. LTC facilities provide a safe environment for seniors and chronically ill individuals to receive the treatment they need. 

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Are There Alternatives to Long-Term Care Facilities?

Yes, there are a few alternatives to LTC facilities. Individuals can choose to receive in-home care from a home health aide or nurse instead of residing at an LTC facility like a nursing home. There are also adult day care services and family caregiving options to consider. You'll need to consider your personal goals and finances before selecting the option that's right for you.

How Can an Independent Insurance Agent Help?

Independent insurance agents can help you find the right long-term care insurance to help you pay for long-term care facility services. These agents have access to multiple LTC insurance companies, so they're free to shop and compare policy options and quotes for you. And down the road, your agent can help you file LTC insurance claims and update your coverage when necessary.