For more information about the author, click to view their website: At Home Personal Care
What is Long Term Care Insurance, and How to Use It
As some may know, paying for in-home care for seniors can be very dauting, but we are here to inform you of how your Long-Term Care Insurance can be used to pay for services. Long Term Care (LTC) is a private insurance that covers either some or all cost of residing at a nursing home, assisted living, or remaining in the comfort of your home and receiving the consistent needed care. Long Term Care refers to a host of services that aren’t covered by regular health insurance which are Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Care includes bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring (walking), and continence. Most policies will reimburse you for care giving in a variety of places such as your home, nursing home, assisted living facility, and adult day care center. Long Term Care Insurance can be expensive and may last up to 3 years or more (up to 10+ years in cases of Alzheimer’s and Dementia). The cost of a policy is based on the type and amount of services, how old you are when you buy the policy, and any optional benefits you choose. The cost can also increase for individuals who are older, have health problems, or want more benefits within their policy. It may be easier to qualify for long term care insurance through an employer sponsored program which can enhance cheaper group rates than the cost of an individual policy.
Who pays? When it comes to who pays for long term care, these policies are often paid for by the individual who purchases the policy or a family member. It’s never too early to start planning for a long-term care policy. Family members often become responsible for paying for care services when a parent or loved one cannot afford to pay for their care. Children can also transfer the risk of paying for their parents care by paying for their long-term care insurance policy. When an individual can no longer do 2 out of 6 of the ADL’s mentioned above, long term care insurance pays for services you receive from an assisted living facility, nursing home, adult day care center, and your home. Buying coverage can lead to more options and less financial pressure on your family.
Long Term Care insurance has many different payment methods which reflect on how to pay for a caregiver/private duty home care. The disability method pays out a daily benefit amount to an eligible policyholder whether they are receiving long term care services or not. The indemnity method pays a policyholder directly in the form of a preset dollar amount regardless of the cost they incur. You can also sign up for an annuity contract with an insurance company to help pay for long-term care services. The insurance provider will send you an annuity, which is a series of regular payments made over a certain period, in exchange for a single payment or a series of payments. Long Term Care Insurance does have an elimination period which is the period during care which care costs will have to be paid for out of pocket before coverage kicks in. Some policies have a zero-day elimination period so benefits can begin immediately while others have a 60-day, 90-day, or even 120-day requirement. If a policy has a longer elimination period a considerable sum of money may still have to be paid out of pocket to begin coverage. Please keep in mind that once the elimination period ends, you will be reimbursed by your long-term care provider. If you or your loved one has an (LTC) policy and needs care, our care team can assist you with explaining your benefit coverage at no cost.
At Home Personal Care (214)-540-4940 Home - At Home Personal Care (athomeprctexas.com)
Tonya Dozier, Administrator
The aging process often begins subtly, with gradual changes that seem manageable. One day, your parent is fully independent, taking care of daily tasks without issue. Then, suddenly, it feels as though the aging process accelerates, bringing new challenges all at once. This rapid shift can be difficult for family members, especially if they haven't planned ahead.Why Aging Can Seem to Happen SuddenlyWhile aging typically unfolds slowly, research suggests it doesnt always progress in a straight line. A study published in Nature Aging found that aging tends to occur in bursts, where rapid changes in areas like metabolism, immune health, and muscle strength happen. These bursts often occur around the age of 60, potentially leading to abrupt physical declines (SciTech Daily)(AARP).If you or your loved one wait too long to prepare, you may find yourselves scrambling to deal with the sudden onset of new health challenges. This lack of preparation often leaves caregivers feeling overwhelmed, under-equipped, and burned out.The Pitfalls of Delaying PreparationMany families delay planning for their parents aging, assuming they'll manage when the time comes. Others might avoid the topic altogether because it can be emotionally challenging to discuss. Unfortunately, this wait-and-see approach often leads to caregiver burnout and strained relationships, as families are forced to juggle urgent medical needs, emotional stress, and time-consuming responsibilities without a solid plan in place.If youre struggling to discuss getting help with your aging parent, check out some of our tips here. Remember, asking for assistance during the aging process doesnt mean youre powerless!How Naborforce Can Help You Plan AheadRather than waiting for a health crisis, Naborforce provides consistent support for families throughout the aging journey. As seniors age, they often need help with simple taskslike grocery shopping or getting to appointmentsthat can quickly become time-consuming for loved ones. With Naborforce, you can arrange for a friendly Nabor to assist, allowing your parent to stay independent longer while giving you peace of mind.By building a relationship with Naborforce early, your parent will already be accustomed to receiving help. When aging accelerates, youll have a reliable support system in placesomeone familiar with your parent who can step in to help with everyday tasks. This helps ease your parents transition while giving you the time and space to focus on your own responsibilities.The Importance of Having a PlanThe key to supporting your parent as they age is to start planning before their needs become urgent. With Naborforce, you can establish a flexible plan that evolves as your parents needs change. Whether its an occasional visit or regular check-ins, Naborforce can tailor its services to fit your schedule and your parents preferences. By starting early, you ensure that you and your parent have the right support in place before bigger challenges arise.Naborforce is just one of many resources available to help with the aging process. Other tools include financial planning, setting up a trust and estate plan, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using technology designed for senior living, and understanding the care continuum.Getting Started with NaborforceIts easy to get started with Naborforce. You can customize the level of support you need, from occasional assistance to more regular visits. Take the proactive step of setting up care before it becomes urgent, so your parent can stay comfortable, independent, and supported as they age.A Helping Hand for Older Adults - Naborforce 844-696-2267 Were Naborforce. We match older adults who need a little help and kindness with Nabors eager to provide it, strengthening the communities we serve.Everyone can use a little help. Help around the house. Help running errands. Help preparing a meal. Help by just being a friend! Our goal is to promote joyous and independent aging and living while providing peace of mind to families.
As more American families face the reality of aging, in-home care is becoming a preferred option. A recent AARP survey shows that over half of Americans aged 50 and above plan to remain in their homes as they age, and for good reasons. Staying at home offers comfort, familiarity, and with proper planning, can also be more cost-effective while promoting longer independence for elderly parents.With the continuous rise in healthcare and long-term care costs, having early and honest financial discussions is key.If your loved one is thinking about aging at home, weve created this guide with useful tips to help support senior independence while easing the financial burden.Here are steps to ensure your parents or loved ones age safely and comfortably at home.1. Start Financial Discussions EarlyWhile it can be uncomfortable to talk about finances with aging parents, its a vital conversation to have. Begin by reviewing their current financial situation, including assets, debts, and regular expenses. Also, look into possible income sources such as:PensionsSocial SecurityRetirement savings (401k, investments)Being open helps you understand your parents financial landscape while making them feel supported. Approach this conversation with compassion, emphasizing how you aim to maintain their quality of life while preparing for the future.(Need tips on convincing an aging parent to accept help? Check out our blog on how to navigate these conversations.)2. Understand the Costs of Aging at HomeAccording to the National Council for Aging, the average monthly cost of a senior care facility ranges between $4,500 and $5,300, a significant financial strain for many families. Aging at home can be more affordable, but it's essential to account for associated expenses.One of the hidden costs of aging in place is home maintenance and modifications, which can account for up to 52% of out-of-pocket expenses, according to a 2021 AARP study. Personal care services and medical staff, if needed, can also add to these expenses. For a detailed breakdown of long-term care costs, including potential surprises for families dealing with conditions like dementia, check out this Wall Street Journal article.3. Explore Long-Term Care InsuranceWith rising care costs, long-term care insurance can help cover expenses for in-home care, nursing, or assisted living. The earlier you invest in a policy, the more affordable the premiums.However, long-term care insurance may not be suitable for everyone. It can be pricey and may not cover all types of care. For more information, AARPs guide on hybrid policies, which combine life insurance and long-term care benefits, is a good resource.4. Plan for Home Modifications and SafetyTo keep your parents safe at home, certain home modifications, such as installing grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts, might be necessary. These changes can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on your loved ones health needs.(Looking for affordable ways to enhance home safety? See Naborforces top 10 safety tips for under $10.)In addition to modifications, budgeting for adaptive equipment or medical technology like alert systems is crucial. These devices help ensure that your parents can access help quickly, contributing to their independence and peace of mind.5. Managing In-Home CareIf in-home care is required, costs will vary depending on the level of assistance needed. While part-time help from a home health aide may suffice initially, your parent may eventually need full-time or 24-hour care, which can cost over $100,000 per year.Before reaching that point, services like Naborforce can offer interim support, providing help with small tasks like running errands or getting to appointments. This can extend your parents independence and delay the need for full-time care.6. Know About Medicare, Medicaid, and Other ResourcesIts essential to know what benefits your parents may qualify for. While Medicare does not cover long-term care, it can provide short-term in-home care under certain conditions, such as after a hospital stay. Medicaid, on the other hand, covers long-term care but is means-tested, so eligibility will depend on a careful review of their financial standing.You should also explore local and national programs, including veterans benefits or state assistance programs, which can help offset the cost of aging in place. In some cases, if you become a caregiver for your loved one, you may be eligible for caregiver payments, depending on your states regulations.ConclusionHelping your parents age at home requires thoughtful financial planning, including income assessments, long-term care options, and preparing for unexpected medical needs. Starting early and maintaining open communication can make the process smoother, providing your loved ones with the comfort and security of aging in their own home. And remember, whenever you need an extra hand, Naborforce is here to help!A Helping Hand for Older Adults - Naborforce 844-696-2267 Were Naborforce. We match older adults who need a little help and kindness with Nabors eager to provide it, strengthening the communities we serve.Everyone can use a little help. Help around the house. Help running errands. Help preparing a meal. Help by just being a friend! Our goal is to promote joyous and independent aging and living while providing peace of mind to families.What is Naborforce?Naborforce is a service designed to help seniors maintain their independence by connecting them with "Nabors"trusted community members who assist with everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, transportation to appointments, light household chores, or simply providing companionship. By offering flexible, non-medical support, Naborforce helps seniors age in place while giving families peace of mind. It's a great option for those who want to delay the need for full-time in-home care, ensuring that older adults can continue living comfortably and safely at home with just the right amount of help!Check out our page at www.naborforce.com
You can, but should you?Theres a dark stain over the insurance industry for consumers searching for quotes online. Families and individuals are aware they need to carry health and life protection but dread entering their information online, consequently experiencing the bombardment of phone calls that follow. Its so bad some people would instead go without coverage than speak with a broker over the phone. When in reality, all it takes is working smarter, not harder.Some people will advise you to buy your own auto, home, health, life, or any other insurance. They will tell you horror stories about the number of calls youll receive if you submit information online. They will present a convincing argument, and youll be tempted to accept their advice. I urge you to resist that temptation.Its no surprise that many people are turning to self quoting websites and applications. The appeal is undeniable. Theres nothing inherently wrong about this approach, and it does save the consumer the headache of having to speak to countless agents. However, should you buy insurance without speaking to a licensed broker? Its fine to quote yourself and see whats out there in terms of options, but then proceeding to purchase that insurance without educational guidance is extremely risky for the consumer. When you use past experiences, personal knowledge, and stories heard from friends to make an informed decision on your insurance; the result tends to be medical debt or bankruptcy.A licensed agent or broker has a fiduciary responsibility to you. They are mandated by state and federal law to undergo licensed certification. While you may not have had pleasant experiences in the past, having a broker perform a needs analysis to personalize the policy is a better alternative. Just like any other profession, some paid attention during class, and others did not. It isnt appropriate to blanket statement all insurance brokers as untrustworthy.Heres your solution to avoid entering your information online. Instead, reach out to family members and friends. Ask them whom they use for their insurance needs and their experience with their broker. If you cant find a family or friend who uses a local agent or broker; reach out to colleagues and people within your circle of influence for guidance. By doing so, you are acquiring a real person who is aware of your personal needs and whom others trust. Its an ideal win-win situation between a trusted broker and client. You leave feeling confident in your policy because you are informed, and youve supported a local small business owner and their family. It may not be the fastest solution, but should it?When the world is more efficient, were all happy. Quicker load times, faster test results, high-speed internet. The need for convenience and expedience permeates everything we do. Theres relief in knowing you can quote and compare prices without receiving dozens of calls.However, when you go to purchase your insurance slow down, consult a professional, ask questions, and then fill out your application with the knowledge youre protected and supported.
THE LEADING PREMIERE AT HOME PROVIDER OF HOME CARE SERVICES FOR OVER 10 YEARS AT HOME PERSONAL CARE has been helping seniors and the disabled remain in the comfort of their homes for over 10 years. Founded on the notion that seniors would rather age in their own homes, the company provides assistance through qualified caregivers to allow them to remain where they are most comfortable...AT HOME. | OUR SERVICESAT HOME PERSONAL CARE exists to help our clients remain independent and in the comfort of their own home. Whether your loved one needs help with daily activities, transportation services, Alzheimer's/Dementia or post-surgical support, AT HOME PERSONAL CARE is here to help. OUR CAREGIVERS AT HOME PERSONAL CARE provides care through trained, supervised, and background screened staff to allow all to remain AT HOME. Our caregivers are experienced and compassionate about helping our clients. OUR FUNDINGAT HOME PERSONAL CARE is a private pay provider. In addition to being private pay, we accept all carriers of long term care insurance, and the veterans aid and attendance benefit.CLIENT TESTIMONIALSThe notes below are expressions of appreciation for our services on behalf of employees, family, and clients. As an agency we are gratified at the sentiments expressed for the service we provide. These are reminders of our agency's resolve to serve seniors and their families.Albert Schweitzer once said Only those who have found how to serve will truly be happy."Tonya, thank you for your excellent service. No falls since we got Cassandras care feedback!" | Gail W. Dallas, TXAfter interviewing six personal care agencies we selected At Home Personal Care because of their knowledge of the business, references, follow up, and excellent caregiver screening. Please extend our thanks to Chris and the rest of the staff for their hard work. | Marilynn D., Arlington, TexasYour caregivers are top-notch. I have recommended your services to all my friends in my area. I like having someone around to help me and I look forward to seeing my caregiver each day. | Howard M. Fort Worth, Texas "I have nothing but compliments for each and every one of you, and your employees. Lisa, my caregiver is the best." | Ms. Moore- Dallas, TX"As I look back, my caregiver Shirley made a special effort to have my husband dressed appropriately, even dressed to the vines for special occasions." | Mrs. Caliga- Dallas, TX"The office staff is very responsive and friendly. My caregiver is wonderful with my mom. We are blessed to have her taking care of our mom." | Ms. Zwaska- Lake Highlands, TXLove the company.......... great staff!!!! | Dominica Thompson, Dallas, TXI consider the gals in the office to be more like friends than superiors. They are truly a team of excellent players who provide superior service and are a pleasure to work with. Any issues that may arise they are willing to step up and help me handle in a timely manner.- | Denise Laughton, McKinney, TXIt has been a joyous ride and a privilege from day one to work with all of you. Even though you were a distance in miles, it seemed as if you were right here in the office when needed. You have been a great supervisor to work for. You all have been there for us and allowed us this opportunity to assist many that were in need. | Rosie M., Mesquite, TX"I had no idea what to expect when my husband was first diagnosed with his disease and we learned that he needed in-home care to administer his overall care, due to my bad back. But from day one, the agency has made us feel so comfortable, and our caretaker is part of our family now and we could not have asked for better care and service." | Susie D., Plano, TXOur caregiver is the most wonderful caregiver Ive ever met. My mom has never depended on anyone, and has always been so independent, but now she trusts her caregiver to do what she does best, taking care of her patient. She goes that extra mile to make my mom comfortable and keep her as safe as she possibly can ... She has been more than just a caregiver and my mom and I have accepted her into our family ... She's friendly, caring, and most importantly always on top of what is going on health wise with my most precious family member. I trust her. That is a very difficult thing for me to do because I don't trust my mothers well-being with anyone else but myself, even with other family members. Our caregiver has proven to be completely competent, respectful, and loving towards my mother and her care She has become a wonderful addition to our family. | Linda Z. Dallas, TX"I am very grateful to have been introduced to At Home Personal Care. It has been a great benefit to each and every member of my family. I am now able to go to dinner with my husband and feel safe and secure leaving my parents at home. Thank you again for all of the fine individuals I have met through At Home. I also want to thank all of your staff for their kind and helpful ways, answering any and all questions that I have. I have told so many others of your great services. Keep up the good work." | Peggy B. Grand Prairie, TXI want to personally thank you for taking care of my mom during her last days. It was hard enough for us to get through her passing, but you all helped out tremendously. I have a newfound respect for the care you give people. | Trish Zachowsky- Forney, TXI wish to acknowledge the awesome contributions to my mothers safety and wellbeing made by the people of At Home Personal Care. You all were able to assist us in an emergency need, and you sent a very nice caregiver to our home that same night. In fact, every caregiver who came to the house was well prepared for the unknown tasks at hand. Thank you for taking on the task and performing it in a superior manner. I never even knew that this type of service existed, or could be started so quickly. As the days passed, I was impressed with each of your caregivers as I met them. I have made sure to let the folks know at the local hospital that your agency is top care in my books. | Karen O., Lake Highlands, TXYou all helped my family and I through the many stages of elderly care. From just needing an extra hand around the house all the way to the end of live care for my father. You all selected the right caregiver for my father and his military ways, and I will definitely recommend you all to others that are in need. - Ashli B. Dallas, TXYour service was excellent and I thank you and all your caretakers and for their courtesy, promptness and dependability. The ladies were so attentive and are very caring, to the point of me no longer needing them. Needless to say, I couldn't imagine what would have happened if I would have been alone, thank you for everything. Joni H., Allen, TXWhen mother fell and broke her hip, her world ended. I was attempting to help her by myself and finally reached the point of being overwhelmed, I decided that I needed your help. Upon contacting Tonya, I knew I had made the right decision. Not only did she make me feel more comfortable about utilizing the agency, but she was respectful of what we did and did not want. All the little and big things I could not find the time to do are now taken care of, and I can leave my home not worrying about mother. The caregivers are great with communication, and if something changed with the schedule, Tonya made sure we knew about it. Everyone was always on time, or we were notified if they wouldn't be; honest, professional, trustworthy, hardworking, articulate and caring. My mom would be elated when Tonya would pop-in, or others from the office.-Tori K, Plano, TXI'm grateful to have my caregiver for not only my companion, but as a new friend. She is so caring and helpful in so many ways, and always willing to help me whenever its needed. She has been my caregiver for four years and I couldn't imagine having anyone else. I'm so happy with y'all. -Ms. Betty Kindridge, Richardson, TXI cannot say enough wonderful things about AHPC. Living in a different state with an ill father isn't an easy thing to do. I hired AHPC to take care of my dad right when he was diagnosed with Alzheimers Disease, and the caregivers came into his home and treated him as if they were his daughters. They were there living with my dad and being there for him at his beck and call. If I could rate AHPC ten stars I would, because they have been such a huge relief for my siblings and myself. - Elizabeth P. Washington, D.C.I wanted to thank Tonya, Martha, and everyone else at the agency for helping to take care of my grandmother after she fell and broke her toe. Martha was a jewel, and is considered a part of our small family. - Hydid M., Dallas, TXWe only used you all for the short time that it was needed, but if your services are ever needed again, we know who to call. No matter what time of the day I called, someone answered the phones. You all rock. - Billy M. Dallas, TX