Defining Long Term Care
“What is long term care and who will need it?” – Probably the most common thoughts one has when LTCI is offered. Long term care is a variety of services that helps individuals with personal, custodial, and medical care, with a primary focus on activities of daily living (ADLs).
There are six ADLs:
- Bathing
- Toileting
- Dressing
- Care for Incontinence
- Transferring
- Eating
Additionally, ADLs can extend to instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Some examples of IADLs are pet maintenance, assistance with household chores, making and receiving phone calls, meal preparation, managing medication, etc.
Typically, LTC is advised for people aged 65 and above (according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% among the stated age group will need this type of care). However, younger individuals are qualified and can still receive LTC – in fact, 40% of those receiving LTC are below the age of 65.
Key factors that individuals in need of LTC are:
Health – chronic and mental health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, may mean that an individual will need assistance and care when it comes to accomplishing their ADLs.
Age – as mentioned on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services statistic, elder individuals will need some form of LTC.
Gender – because of observed longer life spans, women are more likely to need LTC.