As you get older, there are a growing number of things to consider. Along with writing a will and making sure your assets are protected in Ohio, you should also consider whether long-term care insurance is something you will benefit from.
According to the AARP, long-term care can help those who have conditions, such as disabilities or chronic illnesses, that need daily care over a long period of time. Assistance may come in the form of:
- Eating
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Skilled care from therapists or nurses
- Adult day care
- Home modification
Because these services are not covered by regular health insurance plans, more people are considering purchasing separate long-term care coverage. A number of factors should be considered when deciding if this type of insurance is a good idea. These include:
- Your income – long-term care insurance can be pricey, so it may not make sense financially, especially if money is already tight
- Your current health – premiums are more affordable if you are in good health
- Your age – premiums are also typically more affordable if you begin paying them when you are younger
- Existence of a support system – consider if you have family members who would be able to help in the event you have future health issues
- Tax benefits – your premiums may be considered a tax deduction if you meet certain standards
If you are 65 years of age or older, keep in mind that Medicare does not cover long-term care services. However, they do cover some healthcare-related services such as qualified home health services, long-term hospital stays, Hospice care and skilled nursing care.
