For Your Lifestyle Planning Folder
Planning for retirement is not just about finances; it’s about planning for your overall well-being, which should involve thinking about your health and personal needs. I understand that no one wants to think about the possibility of needing long-term care. Oftentimes it is something that is put off and not thought about until a loved one or yourself is in need of care. Then your options tend to be limited by lack of information, the immediate need for services, and insufficient resources to pay for preferred services.
But it does not need to be that way; the solution is planning ahead of time for long-term care.
Why should you plan?
Planning ahead of time is important because there is a good chance you will need some kind of long-term care services if you live beyond the age of 65. As a matter of fact, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service, about 70 percent of individuals over age 65 will require at least some type of long-term care services during their lifetime. About 35 percent will need care in a nursing home for some period of time. Factors that increase your risk of needing long-term care are:
- Age – The risk generally increases as you get older.
- Marital Status – Single people are more likely to need care from a paid provider.
- Gender – Women are at a higher risk than men, primarily because they tend to live longer.
- Lifestyle – Poor diet and exercise habits can increase your risk.
- Health and Family History – also impact your risk.
Furthermore, contrary to what many people believe, Medicare and private health insurance programs do not pay for the majority of long-term care services that most people need—help with personal care such as dressing or using the bathroom independently. Planning is essential to be able to get the care you or a loved one might need.
Let me help you have control of your future, give me a call to discuss some of your options.
