Long Term Care Awareness Month
Long Term Care Awareness Month: Why Planning Is Essential
It’s November, and that means its Long Term Care Awareness Month so we wanted to highlight the importance of what this means, and how planning for it is important.
As we age, there’s a strong chance that most of us will need some help to manage daily activities, including dressing, using the bathroom, bathing and other typical activities for self-care that most of us take for granted, until we struggle to do them on our own. In fact, research shows that about 70% of adults aged 65 and older will require some level of long-term care during their lifetime (Forbes). Despite this, only a small percentage of people actively plan for it. At Azimuth Healthcare, we believe that planning for long-term care is not just important but essential to protect both your peace of mind and financial stability. This November, during Long-Term Care Awareness Month, we’re taking the opportunity to emphasize why planning is critical and how we’re here to support you every step of the way.
The Reality of Long-Term Care Needs
Most people recognize the likelihood of needing some type of assistance as they age, whether due to health conditions, mobility issues, or simply the natural progression of aging. But while nearly everyone understands this on some level, only about 19% of Americans have taken any steps to prepare for the future (Moran Wealth Management). Without a plan, families often face the stress and confusion of finding care solutions during a time of crisis. If you’re a caregiver or will be, then without a plan in place, you could be in a tough position when the time comes.
At Azimuth Healthcare, we help families move from reaction to readiness. We believe that everyone deserves a plan that’s as unique as they are, one that considers medical, emotional, and personal needs. By creating a solid, tailored plan, families can feel more in control when they need care the most. We take care of all the navigating, advocating, and coordinating so you can make sure your loved one gets the care they need and you can spend your time loving them without having to worry.
The Financial Impact of Long-Term Care
The cost of long-term care is another essential consideration. It is typically more cost-effective to stay at home, but if your loved one needs to go to a facility, it’s important to know that the average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home can be over $116,000, while assisted living facilities typically run around $64,000 per year (Statista). Most of these costs fall to the individual and their family, a financial burden that can deplete savings quickly without proper planning.
Azimuth Healthcare is here to support families by making these realities easier to manage. We guide clients in exploring their financial options, understanding which costs are likely to arise, and preparing for them. By creating a realistic, personalized plan, we help families make more confident financial choices that support long-term stability.
The Emotional and Physical Demands of Caregiving
Long-term care doesn’t just affect the individual who needs it; it deeply impacts their loved ones as well. Family members and friends provide an estimated 80% of all long-term care services in the United States (Marton Care). And while caregiving is an act of love, it can also be physically and emotionally draining, especially without outside support. Many caregivers find themselves juggling work, family, and caregiving responsibilities, often without formal training or sufficient resources.
Our team at Azimuth Healthcare offers essential support for families facing these challenges. Through our care planning, advocacy, and coordination services, we provide caregivers with the tools and knowledge they need to give quality care without sacrificing their own well-being. We act as a lifeline for family caregivers, providing them with ongoing education, support, and access to the right resources.
How Azimuth Healthcare Helps with Long-Term Care Planning
Long-term care planning requires a thorough approach that addresses health, lifestyle preferences, and financial realities. Here are some of the services we can help you navigate.
Care Planning: We design personalized care plans tailored to each individual’s specific health, lifestyle, and personal needs. Every plan is crafted to grow and change with the client, providing peace of mind for whatever lies ahead.
Education and Support for Families: Knowing how to support a loved one is crucial, and we provide caregivers with practical knowledge and skills to manage caregiving responsibilities effectively.
Coordination Across Services: Managing long-term care can be complex, with many moving parts. We serve as a bridge between families and care providers, ensuring that everything from doctor’s appointments to home care is organized and coordinated seamlessly. This support allows families to focus on what matters most.
With decades of experience in healthcare navigation and advocacy, Azimuth Healthcare is here to help make long-term care planning a more straightforward, compassionate process. We understand that every family’s needs are different, and we work closely with each client to develop solutions that address their unique circumstances.
Steps to Begin Your Long-Term Care Planning Journey
Assess Your Future Needs: Start by considering health factors, family history, and personal preferences for care. Understanding potential needs in advance is crucial to creating a plan that fits your life.
Explore Financial Options: From insurance policies to government assistance programs, several financial tools can help manage the costs of long-term care. We guide you through understanding and selecting the options that make the most sense for you and your family.
Have Open Conversations with Family: Long-term care planning is a family conversation. Discussing preferences and expectations early can prevent future misunderstandings and make sure everyone is prepared.
Consult with Professionals: Azimuth Healthcare is here to guide you every step of the way. With our comprehensive approach, we help you develop a plan that not only meets current needs but can adapt over time as circumstances change.
In Summary
Azimuth Healthcare is here to guide you every step of the way. With our comprehensive approach, we help you develop a plan that not only meets current needs but can adapt over time as circumstances change. So if you, a loved one, or someone you might know can use a helping hand towards navigating the long term care planning process, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to help.
Please share so we can all raise awareness of Long Term Care planning during this month of Long Term Care Awareness.
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