Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month begins on November 1. Alzheimer’s Disease is “Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks,” according to the Alzheimer’s Association. This disease affects more than 3 million people in the US each year.
If you are concerned about Alzheimer’s Disease in yourself or a loved one, now might be the time to plan for long term care in an assisted living facility or a nursing home. There is no one right age to transition to an assisted living facility, but there are legal steps you can take to ensure your transition is smooth and most beneficial to you and your loved ones.
THREE THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MOVING TO A NURSING HOME:
1. DETERMINE HOW YOU WILL PAY FOR LONG-TERM CARE
- Most insurances do not cover staying in an assisted living facility for the long term, but check your policy to see what it does cover.
- Do you qualify for government benefits? The website www.longtermcare.gov can help determine if you qualify for government benefits to help you pay for long term care.
- Some private insurances do cover this expense. It’s best to review all of your options with an attorney. Look at your sources of income to see if you can afford this option.
2. NAME A FINANCIAL AGENT and HEALTH CARE AGENT.
- A living will is a legal document that spells out the kinds of medical care and treatment you do or do not want if you become terminally ill and unable to communicate your wishes. Without it, your doctor may do whatever is necessary, often regardless of cost, to sustain your life as long as possible.
- Durable power of attorney gives another trusted person the power to enforce actions on your behalf regarding financial and medical decisions should the need arise. Make sure that the person you choose is completely trustworthy, strong and assertive, knows and understands your wishes, and is able to make serious and difficult decisions.
3. PROTECT YOUR ASSETS. Work with your attorney to create an estate plan tokeep your property and finances secure. Vinsko & Associates works with financial planners, insurance companies and funeral directors, making it simple and seamless for you to insure the integrity of your estate.