Long Term Care - Preparing for Retirement

The advent of miracle drugs and breakthroughs in medical research has ensured that the average American would live to be at least 65years old.
With the increase of life expectancy, people are faced with the dilemma of taking care of themselves after retirement.
It would definitely be difficult for a senior citizen to take care of the home, go grocery shopping, mow the lawn and carry out other day to day activities, hence the need for long term care insurance.
Because of the delicate nature of this insurance and the fact that there would be no time to rectify any mistakes made, you need to look at the options available and the choice you'll have to make.

• Home care.
  For independentpeople and those who would not want to leave their homes, this is a verygood option.
  This serves as an alternative to a nursing home.
  There areagencies that provide all the services you need ranging form nursingservices, companion and caretaker services to homemaker services.
  Ensurethat these agencies are certified and that they comply with Medicare andMedicaid regulations.
  
• Nursing homes.
  Nursing homesare designed to take care of you in your old age.
  Most people require theservices of a nursing home because they can no longer take care ofthemselves due to mental or physical incapacitation.
  The major advantageof a nursing home is that you have round-the-clock care.
  This care isusually provided by qualified medical personnel under the supervision of aspecialist doctor, personnel with basic skills with supervision by adoctor as deemed necessary and personalized care(bathing, eating anddressing)this does not need specialized skills.
  If you think that you would need medicalcare or you know that you'll need medical care, then you need to check outthe medical facilities and personnel of the nursing home you areconsidering.
  Check out the state of hygiene at the place.
  How is theenvironment? Would you feel at home there? To make sure you are making theright choice, go with a loved one and also check with your State'sdepartment of elder services.
  
• Start shopping extensively forthe type of long term care you would like to have.
  This would help you toknow the kind of policy that would take care of your needs.