Get help with finding long-term care for your loved one in this four-part series. Find articles to help you understand if it’s needed, talk about it with your family members, uncover the costs, and find the right option for your loved one.
Part 1: What is Skilled Nursing, And Does My Loved One Need It?
Part 2: How to Discuss Long-Term Care With Your Loved One
You’ve decided that your loved one would benefit from a move to long-term care. Now they – and the rest of your family – are on board. Next comes the question you may have been avoiding: How much will it cost?
Skilled nursing costs vary depending on a few factors. These include the level of care, your location, the services and amenities the community offers, and more.
According to Genworth’s 2019 Cost of Care Survey, the median monthly cost for long-term care with a private room was $8,517.
The median cost for monthly at-home care services (including a home health aide and homemaker services) was just slightly higher, at $8,675.
Want costs for long-term care at Otterbein? Click here.
What About Medicare and Medicaid?
If you’re planning to rely on Medicare or Medicaid to cover skilled nursing costs, you’ll likely need to rethink your approach.
Medicare Part A may cover a portion of costs for stays at a skilled nursing community for up to 100 days, and under some circumstances.
Rules for Medicaid coverage also vary depending on the state you live in, the community you choose, the services you’ll need, and other factors.
To understand what costs Medicare and Medicaid may cover for you, you’ll want to check with your skilled nursing community of choice. They can help you understand eligibility requirements and what you could expect to pay out of pocket.
What is Long-Term Care Insurance?
Long-term care insurance can help you cover the costs of skilled nursing. Rates may increase for every year you wait to apply, and people with certain health problems may not qualify.
If you’re ready to move into long-term care immediately, long-term care insurance may not be the answer. Instead, you might want to explore sources like health savings account options, pensions, or VA benefits.
Get More Details on Skilled Nursing
Costs and fees are just one part of finding the right skilled nursing community for your loved one.
To start learning more about finding the right skilled nursing community, download our free guide today. You’ll dive deeper into each of the four topics we’re covering in our four-part blog series and get expert tips for navigating your decision.