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As we age, the need for long-term care becomes more of a what and when than an if. High healthcare costs do not align with an older individual's fixed income, raising concerns about affordability and accessibility. Given a choice, many seniors prefer skilled nursing for long-term care. The right estate planning tools can help alleviate those concerns and prepare you for the long-term care you may need and prefer in your senior years. Based on Central Trust Company's article "The Long-Term Care Quandary: Paying for Skilled Nursing Care," we explore the need for long-term care, why Medicare and Medicaid are not long-term options, and estate planning to plan for skilled nursing care proactively.
Needing long-term care is a reality for most of the aging population. Individuals 65 or older are 70% more likely to require long-term care services, which has significant financial implications. Fixed income from Social Security, retirement account distributions, or pensions do not typically cover living expenses and healthcare costs. Many seniors prefer skilled nursing care if given the choice, but the average length of stay and monthly fees of skilled nursing facilities highlight affordability concerns for the aging population. Many aging adults face the challenge of bridging the gap between their income and long-term care costs and consider Medicare and Medicaid options.
Medicare is not a long-term solution. Contrary to popular belief, Medicare's limitations affect long-term care coverage, rendering it a short-term solution. Medicare's hospital insurance coverage is narrow for a fixed number of days. Coverage starts once an individual meets requirements that include daily professional care. Part A covers skilled nursing care under specific conditions; such coverage is limited in duration and scope.
Understanding Medicare's limitations highlights the necessity for alternative financial strategies to effectively cover long-term care costs. Medicaid is a critical safety net for individuals with limited resources for long-term care expenses. Medicaid eligibility criteria, including income and asset thresholds, determine access to benefits. Consult with an estate planning and elder law attorney to develop a solid Medicaid strategy to preserve assets, navigate the approval process, and potentially supplement your income.
Given high costs, limited income, and few supplemental options, seniors can turn to estate planning and elder law strategies to proactively plan for their long-term care. Estate planning that addresses expenses and assistance program eligibility can build, protect, and preserve the wealth needed to afford skilled nursing care. Working with an experienced estate planning and elder law attorney who can anticipate challenges and provide tools such as irrevocable trusts puts you on a path toward improved financial security and long-term care.
As long-term care needs increase and costs rise, estate planning strategies to grow and preserve your money become a top priority. If you want to set up a proactive plan to prepare you for long-term care in a skilled nursing facility with less stress, we can help. Contact The Werner Law Firm probate lawyers for a free consultation!
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Reference: Central Trust Company (Jan. 26, 2024) "The Long-Term Care Quandary: Paying for Skilled Nursing Care"
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