New York Estate Planning & Elder Law Blog
It is often emotionally wrenching to come to the realization that your aging loved one is in need of extra day-to-day care. For local residents, if a proper New York elder care plan is in place there should be options available to provide the necessary assistance. In many cases aid can be provided to the senior while they remain in their own home with care workers traveling to them to assist with basic living chores and some medical needs.
However, there may come a time when moving the relative into a long-term care facility is unavoidable. When that time comes there are often two major questions to answer: how will we pay for nursing home care and how do we know what facility is best? Local community members can receive guidance on the first question by visiting a New York elder care attorney. Even if no prior planning has been conducted to save assets from these costs–such as the creation of a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust–there may be options to protect part of one’s assets while on the nursing home doorstep. This is known as the “gift and loan” strategy; it is an advanced elder law technique that can save some of your relative’s nest egg from being spent down to pay for an extended nursing home stay.
This week Penn Live shared some tips to help families decide on the appropriate facility for their loved one once the financial issues have been resolved. Some assisted-living facilities are geared toward seniors who can do some things on their own (like bathing and dressing), while many other nursing homes provide assistance in virtually all tasks. In our area, the New York State Office for the Aging provides helpful information on various housing options for seniors and the specific services that they usually provide.
Elder care experts suggest that family members pay close attention to differences at potential homes when narrowing down the exact facility for your loved one. For example, easy access for frequent visits is a key consideration, so the nursing home’s proximity to friends and family is important. In addition, when visiting a possible facility it is helpful to keep a close eye on the physical appearance of the home and the staff members. Nursing homes that are attractive, well-lit, and hazard-free are usually superior. Employees who are courteous, respectful, and appear happy about their work are much more likely to provide the care that your loved one deserves. Other considerations should also be investigated such as the activities provided by the facility, the religious and cultural support offered, and dining options.
See Our Related Blog Posts:
Elder Care Planning Can Secure Happiness in Old Age
Negotiation Strategies Come in Handy For Long-Term Care Planning