Consumers
When looking for care for yourself or loved one and you are confused
by the options, working with a professional nurse or social worker
will provide you with you with resources in your community.
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Professional Evaluation
A good place to find a qualified professional is through a case management
company or home care agency. The professional will evaluate the individual
based on individual needs and recommend options for home care or alternative
living arrangements.
Elder Law Support
There are attorneys who specialize in elder law and provide information
on power of attorney, medical power of attorney, guardianship, conservatorship,
ALTCS (Medicaid). Elder law attorneys can be found in the yellow pages
or the local Council on Aging.
Financial Resources
It is essential to have a clear understanding the individual’s
monthly income, assets and liabilities. This information will assist
in determining plans for the individual depending upon the longevity,
care needs and preferences.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance is different than medical insurance (i.e.
Medicare, Blue Cross, HMO etc.). The traditional medical insurance
does not pay for long-term care needs. Long-term care insurance although
perceived as expensive is relatively inexpensive compared to the actual
cost of long term care. Long-term care insurance is designed to provide
care in a setting other than an acute care unit in a hospital, for
example, in a nursing home, at an assisted living center, or directly
in the home.
Contact your state’s insurance commission to obtain the names
of insurance companies which provide long-term care insurance in
your state and the rating of each company. Every company is different
so make sure you know what services are covered with a standard
policy. Be sure to ask about “extended features” with
a long-term care insurance policy which may be needed to cover home
health care, adult day care, and homemaker services.
Choosing A Long Term Care Provider
Continuum of Care Options
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President Judy Clinco RN, Program Coordinator Tom Starrs and 2 graduates from the Spring 2002 class.
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