Help for Transitioning Out of Nursing Home and Long-Term Care
While most people would prefer to remain in their own homes, there are times when a stay in a nursing home or other residential care facility is in their best interests. For older adults and those of all ages who suffer from serious injuries, illnesses, or chronic medical conditions, it may be the only way to ensure they get the attention, assistance with daily tasks, and level of medical care they need. Unfortunately, nursing home care can quickly deplete the savings and other assets of both the patient and their family members. Medicaid planning provides a way to reduce these costs and can help shorten the length of a stay as well.
The Need for Long-Term and Nursing Home Care
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there is a 70 percent chance of eventually needing long-term or nursing home care at some point in your life. In addition to older adults who may require it for dementia and other conditions associated with age, even young people may need this type of intensive, inpatient help if they suffer an accidental injury, a serious medical condition, or require surgery. The average length of stay in a long-term care facility is close to four years for women and over two for men. However, for patients aged 65 or older, 20 percent of those who enter a facility will end up staying there for more than five years.
Without Medicaid planning or long-term care insurance, the costs associated with this care could quickly wipe you out financially. While receiving care at home may be a better and more cost efficient option, once you enter long-term care, there are certain criteria you will need to meet before being released.
Shortening Long-Term Care Stays
The New York Department of Health has strict guidelines for releasing nursing home and long-term care patients. In order to be discharged, the following conditions must be met:
- The patient must have recovered or sufficiently improved from their previous medical condition;
- The level of medical care and personal assistance needed by the patient must be available in the community;
- They must have a suitable home, apartment, or other form of housing;
- There must be a post-discharge plan involving the patient and their family or friends.
If you are eligible for benefits due to Medicaid planning, there are numerous services within the community that can help shorten your nursing home stay and ease the transition towards living on your own. In New York City, these include personal care and nursing aids, meal delivery services, help with transportation to and from doctor appointments, adult day care, and family support services.
Let Us Help You Today
At Cavallo & Cavallo, we provide the trusted guidance you and your family need in providing for your future. To discuss your options and how we can help, call or contact our Bronx & Westchester Medicaid and nursing home attorneys online and request a consultation in our office today.
Resource:
longtermcare.acl.gov/the-basics/how-much-care-will-you-need.html
