Should you consider long term care planning? Although no one can see the future, we can all plan for any number of eventualities. For many people, planning for the “what ifs” is a crucial part of estate planning, and involves considering how to pay for long term care. So, what are some considerations for Pennsylvania residents who want to make sure that they account for long term care?
It can be important to anticipate what level of long term care may be needed. Do you already have a health condition that may get worse as you get older? If so, it may make sense to plan for round-the-clock care at home or in a nursing home, where the residents usually have the access they need to medical treatment. If the condition is not as serious, a personal care home or assisted living facility may be sufficient.
But, what if you are a relatively healthy person with no history of physical problems? You may not need such a high level of care. It could, instead, be wise to set aside some funds for extra help around the house as you get older, such as for repairmen, landscapers, cooks, personal shoppers and even occasional caregivers.
Of course, there is a wide range between these two ends of the spectrum when it comes to long term care planning. Some people may not want to designate a set amount of funds and will, instead, pay for a long-term care insurance policy that will help to cover costs, if they are ever needed. The variety of options can be daunting, so any Pennsylvania resident who wants to explore their options for paying for long term care may need legal advice from an elder law attorney.
Source: FindLaw, “Planning Long Term Care,” accessed February 18, 2018