As your parents age, finding the right long-term care options in Nelsonville and Southeast Ohio becomes crucial. This guide will help you understand the different types of care available, what to look for in a facility, and how insurance can play a role in your planning.
Understanding Long-Term Care Options in Nelsonville:
Here’s an overview of the most common long-term care options available in Nelsonville and the surrounding areas:
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- Home Health Care: Allows your parents to remain in their Nelsonville home while receiving assistance with daily living activities.
- Independent Living Facilities: Offers private apartments or cottages for seniors who can care for themselves but may need some assistance in Nelsonville.
- Assisted Living Facilities: Provides independent living arrangements along with on-site assistance in Nelsonville.
- Skilled Nursing Facilities (Nursing Homes): Offers 24/7 care for seniors who require a high level of medical attention in Nelsonville and surrounding areas like Athens, Albany, Logan, and Chauncey.
- Memory Care Facilities: Specialized facilities in Nelsonville and nearby areas for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Choosing the Right Care Facility in Nelsonville:
When selecting a long-term care facility in Nelsonville or Southeast Ohio, consider the following factors:
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One of the many bedroom at Kimes Nursing Home.
Level of care needed: Assess your parents’ current and potential future needs.
- Location: Consider how close the facility is to Nelsonville and other family members.
- Facility reputation and licensing: Research the facility’s history, check for any licensing violations, and read online reviews.
- Staff qualifications and experience: Look for facilities with certified and experienced caregivers in Nelsonville and the surrounding areas.
- Activities and amenities: Does the facility offer activities and social opportunities to keep your parents engaged in Nelsonville?
- Safety and security measures: Ensure the facility has proper safety protocols, emergency response plans, and security measures in place in Nelsonville.
- Cost: Compare costs of different facilities and services in Nelsonville and surrounding areas like Athens, Albany, Logan, and Chauncey. Consider potential insurance coverage, often referred to as a Long Term Care Rider to which Erie Insurance defines from their website:
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A long-term care accelerated death benefit (LTC) rider is an optional enhancement to a qualifying Universal Life or Whole Life insurance policy that provides financial support if you need hands-on daily care from a nurse or a health aide for long periods of time. This care can be received at your home or in health care facility.
Red Flags to Watch Out For:
During your research, be aware of potential red flags:
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Floor Plan for a “One Bedroom Deluxe” at the Lindley Inn.
Unkempt facilities or unpleasant odors
- Unfriendly or understaffed caregiving personnel
- Unwillingness to answer questions openly or provide references
- Residents appearing unkempt or neglected
- Unclear or hidden fees in the cost structure
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The Role of Insurance in Long-Term Care:
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- Medicare: Generally, Medicare doesn’t cover long-term care costs. However, it may offer some limited coverage for short-term stays in a skilled nursing facility following a hospital stay.
- Medicaid: This government program may offer financial assistance for long-term care in Nelsonville for low-income individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: This type of insurance can help offset the cost of long-term care services, providing peace of mind for you and your parents. Explore different plans and benefits with our lead insurance advisor Brent Hartman to see if his options align with your needs.
The Laurels in Athens, just off of Columbus Road.
Finding Resources for Assisted Living in Southeast Ohio:
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- Area Agency on Aging: Southeast Ohio Area Agency on Aging (SEOOAA) provides resources and information on long-term care options in Nelsonville and the surrounding areas.
- Ohio Department of Aging: The Ohio Department of Aging website offers a wealth of information on long-term care options and resources across the state, including Nelsonville.
- Nelsonville Homes: Located just off of Canal Street in downtown, Nelsonville Homes is a 40-unit HUD/Tax Credit senior community.
- The Laurels of Athens: Located off of U.S. Route 33, just two miles from O’Bleness Hospital, featuring 111 beds, which includes 99 private rooms and 12 apartment-style rehabilitation suites.
- Hickory Creek of Athens: Located in The Plains, Ohio just outside of Athens and a short distance from the beautiful campus of Ohio University.
- The Lindley Inn: A residential alternative to a nursing home near Athens, in the Plains, Ohio.
- Kimes Nursing & Rehabilitation Center: They specialize in providing skilled nursing care, physical, occupational & speech therapies & all stages of Alzheimer’s/dementia care.
Choosing long-term care for your parents in Nelsonville or Southeast Ohio can be an emotional and stressful process. Remember to prioritize your own well-being throughout this journey. Seek support from family members, friends, or professional resources to manage the stress and make informed decisions.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor and healthcare professional to discuss your specific situation and insurance options in Nelsonville.
Featured image by Georg Arthur Pflueger.
