Will Long-Term Care Insurance Cover Assisted Living?March 24, 2023Will long-term care insurance cover assisted living? Yes. A good long-term care policy will help pay for assisted living and include coverages in other settings. But the real question is whether or not you currently have a long-term care policy.Most seniors do not. And by the time you need one, you might not qualify due to age or pre-existing conditions.More than 70% of American seniors over 65 will likely need long-term care at some point. But only 10% of Americans have any long-term care coverage.Without long-term care insurance, you or your family will most likely pay for your long-term care costs from savings, retirement accounts, equity loans against your house, or other private sources.And depending on if you decide to age in place at home or choose an assisted living community, these costs are challenging for most families. Using Sarasota, Florida as an example, according to Genworth Financial, the 2023 monthly costs average about $6,700 for Home Health services, $4,570 for assisted living, and $10,500 for a semi-private room at a nursing home.What is Long-Term Care Insurance?Long-term care insurance provides many services not covered by regular health insurance. Every policy is different and has specific coverage. But most long-term care policies include assistance with routine daily activities, like dressing, bathing, or getting in and out of bed.Where Does Long-Term Care Apply?Long-term care insurance helps seniors pay for the services and support they need as they age. And long-term care is for more than just assisted living communities. These policies often cover long-term care provided at:Your homeAn assisted living residenceA nursing homeAn adult day care centerWhat Is Covered Under Long-Term Care Insurance?Long-term care policies help with areas often ignored by other health insurance policies. A long-term care policy can help cover the costs of chronic medical conditions, a disability, or a condition like Alzheimer's. This includes:Assistance with your activities of daily living (ADLs)Certain homemaker services that are in conjunction with personal careSkilled nursing carePhysical, speech, and rehabilitation therapyRespite CareWhat Is Not Covered Under Long-Term Care Insurance?Like most insurance policies, long-term care policies have limitations and exclusions. It is essential to read and understand the policy to know what is covered and what is not.Many long-term care policies do not cover:Pre-existing conditions for a certain period of time. Understanding this clause is crucial. A pre-existing condition is typically defined as receiving medical advice or treatment or having symptoms within a certain period before applying for the policy. Some companies look further back than others, and some do not have restrictions for pre-existing conditions at all.Self-Inflicted InjuriesCertain nervous disorders or mental conditionsDrug and alcohol abuseWhy buy long-term care insurance?The reason to buy long-term care insurance is the same reason you purchase other insurance, like car, home, and health insurance: peace of mind. You pay a little each year or month, so you don't have to worry about paying a large amount of money should the unexpected happen.But long-term care is different, because needing it is expected and a normal part of aging in the US. More than 70% of the population will need long-term care help not covered by regular health insurance.Suppose you are fortunate enough to be wealthy and can easily cover all long-term care expenses out of pocket. In that case, long-term care insurance may not be for you. But for most Americans, long-term care insurance can be a valuable part of their financial planning.Do Medicare and Medicaid Cover Long-Term Care?Long-term care insurance policies are specifically designed to help with most long-term care costs.  Medicare does not pay for long-term care. Medicaid is a state-run program designed for those whose assets and income are under the states low threshold. Even then, the program is complex, the benefits are limited and minimal, and the waitlist can take years. Medicare Does Not Pay for Long-Term CareMedicare is of little help with long-term care costs. The Medicare website is pretty blunt about this subject, stating, "Medicare and most health insurance, including Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), don't pay for long-term care." The site goes on to explain it is important to plan for long-term care to maintain your independence and get the care you need in the future.Medicare does pay for limited stays in rehabilitation facilities, like in-patient physical therapy for a hip replacement. But, the limit is 100 days. And suppose after that you must move to assisted living or a nursing home. In that case, Medicare does not cover your custodial costs.Medicaid Is Very Limited and Can Take YearsFor seniors over 65, Florida Medicaid is a minimal program. You must require nursing-facility-level care, and your assets must be below Florida's low threshold. The program was designed to help the frail and neediest first, and you can be on the waitlist for years. Medicaid recipients typically have a low income and have exhausted most of their savings. Because of the complexity, uncertainty, and length of time required to access any benefits, expecting Medicaid to help with long-term care needs may not be the best option.When Should You Buy Long-Term Care Insurance?The time to buy long-term insurance is before you need it. And the premiums are less when you are younger. Typically, most long-term care insurance buyers are between 50 and 65. It is becoming challenging to buy long-term care coverage over 70 due to health conditions, insurance company policies, expensive premiums, and pre-existing conditions.And even if you are age-qualified, the insurance company might reject your application if any of the following are true:You currently need help with daily activities (ADLs).You are already receiving long-term care.You have been diagnosed with dementia or another cognitive impairment.You have a progressing neurological condition like Parkinson's or ALS.You have had a stroke.You have specific cancer diagnoses. However, a diagnosis of cancer does not automatically get you declined. It depends on the type of cancer, how long ago you were diagnosed, and the individual insurance companies' underwriting guidelines.The best advice is to buy long-term care insurance before you need it and while you are younger and healthy.Summary: Should You Get Long-Term Care Insurance?Everyone ages and almost everyone will need help with senior care expenses, whether they age in place at home or choose an assisted living community.But paying for that care can be overwhelming and severely impact a family's budget and savings. Many families are forced into difficult financial challenges with an additional and unexpected $5,000 to $10,000 monthly expense for care.Long-term care insurance can help you plan for the future and give you and your family peace of mind.Whether your senior loved one is deciding to age at home or considering an assisted living community, Florida Senior Consulting can help.And if they don't have long-term care insurance, we can help you navigate all the other options.We are a Florida-based company with expert knowledge of the Florida senior market. While senior options can seem confusing, this is all we do. Florida Senior Consulting helps seniors decide their next best steps and the easiest way to afford the transition.We have certified staff, licensed nurse advocates, and decades of experience in the field.Senior living should be on your terms, and the choice should always be yours.Call us, and we will answer all your questions and help you decide what is best for you or your senior loved one.For peace of mind, call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit FloridaSeniorConsulting.com.

A common obstacle that comes with getting older is difficulty with mobility, or the ability to move around freely and easily. Mobility challenges can arise as we age for a variety of reasons, including loss of muscle mass, weakened joints, dizziness, nerve issues, foot pain, certain medications, and confusion. Less mobility can lead to an increased risk of falls and injuries. However, plenty of mobility aids exist to help seniors reduce their risk of falling when moving around the house or outside. With a lowered risk of falls comes more independence and a higher quality of life for seniors. And isnt that the ultimate goal as we age?  There are numerous types of mobility aids and solutions available for seniors. Keep reading for explanations of the most common types of mobility aids and how to decide which to use.Importance of Mobility AidsAccording to the CDC, more than 1 out of 4 people ages 65 and older has a fall each year. Furthermore, emergency departments treat 3 million seniors for injuries from falls yearly. Falling is the leading cause of accidents, serious injuries, and accidental deaths in seniors. Falls should always be taken seriously, as they can be a major threat to older adults health and independence. Understandably, falling is a common fear for many seniors, even if they have never fallen before. However, falls do not have to be inevitable with age. There are many ways to prevent or reduce a seniors chance of falling, including through the use of mobility aids.Choosing the Right Senior Mobility AidThere are many different types of assistive aids and devices that offer varying levels of mobility support for seniors. In the past, such a wide variety of devices was not always available to the general public, and options were often limited. However, in the past few decades, a great deal of devices have become widely available for everyday use by seniors. Mobility aids provide stability and prevent falling when seniors are standing, walking, and reaching in their everyday life. It is important to choose the right device based on the seniors level of mobility and the intended use. Below are some of the most commonly-used mobility aids for seniors, along with some of their advantages and disadvantages.CanesCanes are some of the most widely used and available mobility aids in the U.S. There are a number of different types of canes available to the public. Canes are a relatively simple walking aid and therefore are generally a cost-effective option.Single point canes are a type of walking assistance aid intended for people with light to moderate walking difficulties. They give the user an additional point of contact with the floor, providing more stability. These canes help with balance and relieve pressure on joints, making it easier for the user to move around.Another kind of cane is called a quad cane, which has four tips and therefore provides a broader base of support. They are also great for people who have light to moderate walking difficulties, but who require slightly more help with balance than a single-point cane can provide. As an added benefit, quad canes can stand on their own, which gives the user more freedom to use their hands. However, it is important to note that these canes can be slightly heavier to use.All canes come in a number of different styles. No matter which one you pick, make sure it has a wide rubber tip to prevent slipping. Also, make sure to get a cane that is the proper height. In general, when holding the cane, your elbow should have a comfortable bend of about 15-20 degrees. Ask your doctor or physical therapist to help you pick the right cane for you. WalkersPhoto Credit: Performance HealthAs the name states, walkers are another type of walking assistance aid. They are the next step up from canes in terms of support level. Walkers can have wheels, rubber tips, or tennis balls to help with traction and movement on the floor. Walkers are best for people who need stability but have trouble lifting a cane or staying balanced while standing up. They are also good for people who sometimes experience periods of dizziness or confusion. Keep in mind that users need to have decent upper-body mobility to maneuver a walker. Studies have shown that being an early adopter of a walker can significantly lower the chance of a fall. So while some seniors may be reluctant to use walkers, these tools can majorly improve their independence in the long run. RollatorsPhoto Credit: Simply MedicalRollators are another type of mobility aid specifically for walking assistance. Rollators are wheeled walkers that also have seats and hand brakes. These devices are best for people who need to sit down and rest frequently, or for those who have difficulty walking longer distances.Rollators are often easier to maneuver than walkers and usually provide the user with more speed. But, they may not be best for people with severe balance issues, as traditional walkers provide more traction. Manual WheelchairsPhoto Credit: AmazonWheelchairs are mobility devices that have two large wheels and a seat with a backrest. They are common mobility aids for people who are unable to walk on their own, but still have some upper body strength to turn the wheels. They come in a variety of shapes, styles, and sizes to suit different users preferences and needs.Since manual wheelchairs do require some upper body strength to operate, assistance pushing the wheelchair might be needed from a family member, friend, or caregiver. However, manual wheelchairs are a relatively affordable option, especially when compared to power wheelchairs. They are also usually more lightweight and easier to maintain. Power WheelchairsPhoto Credit: Mobility WorksPower wheelchairs are battery-powered wheelchairs with six wheels for added stability. They are a great mobility option for people who do not have the upper body strength to maneuver a manual wheelchair, or do not have a regular caregiver to help them. Because of this, they offer more independence and autonomy than a regular wheelchair. Power wheelchairs can be used indoors or outdoors. Varieties with tighter turn radiuses exist and are designed specifically for use in the home. Others are designed to be more heavy-duty and suited for different terrains.Note that while they offer a higher level of support, power wheelchairs are a more costly option than standard wheelchairs or other mobility devices.  Power ScootersPhoto Credit: Top MobilityPower scooters, also called electric mobility scooters, are electronically-powered chairs that users can drive around. They are similar to wheelchairs but are built like a motor scooter. Power scooters are ideal for people who have limited strength and trouble walking long distances, but still have some upper body mobility and upright posture. Scooters can cover a larger range of terrain than power wheelchairs, but they do have a wider turning radius. Because of their larger size and trouble in tight areas, power scooters might not be best for seniors who need mobility assistance at home. Instead, they are more ideal for usage outdoors, in public places, or in senior living communities with wide hallways and large rooms. How Much Do Mobility Aids Cost?For people paying out of pocket, mobility aids are available at almost all price points. For example, standard canes will usually cost between $15 to $35. High-quality walkers and rollators are slightly more expensive and can fall within the $40 to $200 range depending on features and materials. Powered mobility aids such as power scooters and power wheelchairs are the most costly to pay for out of pocket. The price can begin at $1,000 and can increase to $4,000 for higher-quality models.How to Pay for Mobility AidsDepending on the specific provider, mobility concern, and policy, many mobility aid purchases can be covered partially or fully by insurance. It is required that a physician signs off on the mobility aid to certify the need for the device.There are some other ways to acquire mobility aids for people who cannot afford them. For example, Medicare and Social Security have different programs available for seniors in need of mobility devices. Veterans Assistance benefits can also help cover the cost of assistive mobility equipment. Certain charities and foundations such as the Numotion Foundation and the American Outreach Foundation can often help people get wheelchairs and mobility aids for no cost, as well.  For a longer list of grants available for people with disabilities in need of mobility aids, click here.  And dont forget to research local groups and foundations in your area that may be able to provide mobility aids at no cost.Ways to Maintain MobilityIt is very beneficial to maintain your mobility as you age. The best way to remain mobile in your later years is to stay active and practice certain mobility skills regularly. Some ideas for maintaining mobility include walking, stretching, participating in low-impact cardio workouts, doing balance and coordination exercises, practicing good posture, and following a proper diet. Next StepsMobility aids can be life-changing for seniors who have trouble moving around on their own. They help prevent dangerous falls, provide reassurance about safety, and allow seniors to stay independent for longer. There are plenty of mobility aid varieties available for people with different needs, preferences, and budgets. Talk to a healthcare professional about the type of mobility aid that is best suited for you or your senior relative. Need further reassurance about your or your loved ones safety? It might be time to consider a senior living community. Whether you are looking for a maintenance-free, social lifestyle in an independent living community, some assistance with daily tasks in an assisted living community, or care at home, we can help make it happen.With decades of experience, our team of senior care experts will help you find the perfect community to stay safe and live your best life. From touring communities, dealing with the moving process, and even checking in regularly after the move, well handle the transition every step of the way. Let us do the hard part so you can focus on enjoying your golden years. Call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit FloridaSeniorConsulting.com to learn more about how we can help. Our services are at no cost to you.

Sometimes we accumulate more than we need or have space for. This can lead to clutter and overwhelm our homes. Before we know it, our home can become cluttered and overwhelming. The mess not only affects the appearance of our living space but also our mental health. Junk removal services offer an effective solution to rid your home of unwanted clutter and improve your overall well-being. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of junk removal services, their benefits, and how to choose a reliable company.  The Dangers of Collecting and Why It's Important to Declutter  Over time, we can accumulate more things than we need and create an overwhelming environment. Not only does this clutter affect our mental health, but it can also pose safety hazards in our homes. People can trip over excess items or increase the risk of fire hazards. It's essential to declutter and remove unnecessary items to create a safe, welcoming living space. Read our blog post The Dangers of Collecting for more information.  Get Rid of Clutter Quickly and Safely  Professional junk removal services provide a convenient and safe solution to remove clutter from your home quickly. Junk removal professionals have the experience and equipment necessary to complete the job thoroughly and efficiently. Their training reduces the risk of injury and damage to the home when handling hazardous materials or bulky items. It also ensures the proper disposal of the items.     Tips on How to Find a Reliable Junk Removal Company  When looking for a reliable junk removal company, there are some critical factors to consider. First, hire a professional junk hauling company that is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents. Be sure to check their reviews online to gauge their reputation and level of customer service. A good junk removal company provides clear pricing estimates, flexible scheduling, and a commitment to environmental responsibility.  To learn more about junk removal, read our blog here!WayForth offers comprehensive moving solutions. These include downsizing, packing, moving, and settling into a new home. We can help you or a family member with these services. Contact our moving professionals today at 1.844.WAYFORTH. 

Senior living communities offer many benefits, including maintenance-free living, chef-prepared meals, and plenty of amenities. But some of the most crucial benefits of senior living communities are the many opportunities for seniors to interact with others, make connections, and stay social.  Assisted living and independent living communities are the perfect places for seniors to meet and interact. From sharing meals and playing cards to attending fitness classes and going on outings, the chances to socialize with others are limitless.    Socialization is essential to seniors overall health and well-being. The emotional, physical, and cognitive benefits of socializing all contribute to seniors wellness as a whole. In fact, many people believe that socialization is the secret ingredient to a healthier, happier life. In a study by the Mather Institute, 69% of older adults reported that moving to a senior living community improved their social wellness, and therefore, their overall health.  In honor of July being Social Wellness Month, lets dive right into the many ways socialization improves seniors overall wellness. Mental and Emotional Health Benefits of Staying SocialMany people struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation as they age. Whether they experience loss, live alone, are far away from loved ones, or have limited mobility to visit others, there are plenty of reasons why so many older adults are facing these mental health issues. Socialization is one significant way seniors can improve their mental health. Interacting with others is a natural way to stave off loneliness and isolation, which in turn reduces anxiety and depression. Socializing also improves peoples moods and provides a sense of worth and belonging within a community. Overall, positive interactions with others increase self-esteem and feelings of purpose, which also greatly contribute to improved mental health.  Physical Health Benefits of Staying SocialSocialization naturally requires seniors to be more active as they participate in activities with others. Having a strong social life helps seniors stay engaged and reduces their stress levels. As we know, decreasing stress is one of the best things you can do for your physical health. Because of this reduced stress and other factors, staying social improves seniors cardiovascular health and immune system. It also lowers the risk of developing many chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Studies have even shown that older adults who socialize more frequently actually live longer than those who do not. All the more reason to start getting social!Cognitive Benefits of Staying SocialNot only does socialization have numerous mental and physical health benefits, but it also has many positive impacts on the brain. In fact, studies have shown that social engagement actually slows peoples cognitive decline. Participating in conversations and group activities stimulates seniors minds and keeps their brains sharp. This in turn leads to improved cognitive function and memory skills. A study from the American Journal of Public Health showed that older women who had a social network had a reduced risk of dementia, and experienced delayed or no cognitive impairments. Another study found that seniors with no social connections were over 2 times more likely to experience cognitive decline than those who had 5 or 6 social connections. And, seniors who felt lonely had more than double the risk of developing Alzheimers disease. The cognitive benefits of socialization are clear, and they are powerful. Social Activities for Seniors in Southwest FloridaThere are plenty of activities, groups, clubs, and organizations available for Florida seniors who wish to stay social and active. And with over 4.5 million people over the age of 65 in the state of Florida, there are plenty of seniors to meet. Factor in the nice weather year-round, and there are countless opportunities for seniors to meet others and get involved in a wide variety of activities.Below are some socialization opportunities for seniors in Southwest Florida.Senior Friendship Centers(Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Lee County, Sarasota, Venice)Photo credit: Senior Friendship CentersThis organizations mission is to build vibrant communities through advancing wellness, connection, and enrichment for seniors. They offer many opportunities for seniors to socialize at their Activity Centers. At these locations, seniors can gather, have coffee with friends, take classes, exercise, play cards, attend special events, listen to live music, and more.YMCA of Southwest Florida(Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Englewood, Fort Myers, Lakewood Ranch, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Venice, Florida)Photo credit: YMCA of Southwest FloridaThe YMCAs Active Older Adults program holds many social gatherings for seniors, including bingo nights, barbecues, holiday parties, dances, Senior Olympics, group exercise classes, tennis and pickleball leagues, and more. Lehigh Acres Senior Citizens Center(Fort Myers, Florida)Photo credit: GoogleThis non-profit organization provides opportunities for seniors to meet others, stay active, volunteer, learn, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Some of the programs they offer include billiards, Tai Chi, jewelry making, karaoke, yoga, Zumba, Mahjong, cribbage, various day trips and many more.Town Square(Sarasota, Florida)Photo credit: Town SquareTown Square is a 1950s-themed adult day care center in Sarasota, Florida. They offer a wide variety of immersive, nostalgic activities and spaces for seniors to enjoy with peers, including classic films, vintage garages, diners, salons, and art studios. They also offer Reminiscence Therapy, which is designed to help those with dementia or Alzheimers reconnect with their past memories. Adult day care centers such as this one are a good option for seniors who do not live in residential senior living communities but do require some personal care. The Sunshine Senior Center(St. Petersburg, Florida)Photo credit: Sunshine CenterThis senior center in Tampa Bay is a great option for older adults to gather for support, socialization, fitness and other services. Some of the socialization opportunities available at the Sunshine Senior Center include fitness classes, congregate dining, day and overnight trips, card games, dancing, crafts, seminars and more.Helping Your Senior Loved Ones Stay SocialMaintaining an active social life is a surefire way to improve your senior loved ones quality of life. With improved self-esteem and sense of purpose as well as enhanced cardiovascular health and cognitive function, the benefits of socialization are endless.One major way to ensure your loved one gets the social engagement they need is by moving to a senior living community. With full daily schedules of events, activities, classes, and outings, there is always something exciting and social happening at a senior living community. Residents can interact with others, find people with similar interests, and build connections with ease.But how do you find the right community?Thats where Florida Senior Consulting comes in. We are a family-run, Florida-based company that helps seniors and their families find the best senior living. We make your loved one part of our family and make sure they get the care they deserve, even after they move in.Our expert senior advisors have decades of experience in the field and are familiar with every community in the area. We can help match your loved one to the perfect community based on their interests, preferences, and needs.We believe senior living should be on our terms, and the choice should always be yours.To start enjoying your golden years, call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit us at FloridaSeniorConsulting.com