According to a recent report by the US census bureau, the proportion of the global population aged 65 and over is set to outnumber children under five for the first time. The report shows that over the next 30 years the number of over-65s is expected to double from 506 million to 1.3 billion. That will bring new burdens on carers and social service providers, which still lack inducements from governments to continue working.
Although the US comes in at number 19 in the list of the world’s oldest countries, hundreds of thousands of the US’s elderly people are lonely, isolated and at risk. That’s why it’s important to take steps to arrange for any care you or your family members may require.
1. Start with the type of care you need
There are a variety of options available to those who need care. The choice depends on how much care is required. Home care is the most practical solution for those who need a few hours help a day. Sheltered housing is also for people who don’t require round-the-clock care and are still relatively mobile and independent. Care homes with or without nursing provide you with accommodation, meals and help with washing, dressing, etc.
2. Arrange for care assessment
Care assessment usually involves a home visit and a talk with your GP. The assessor draws up a report on your care needs and the type of care that would suit you best. Your personal finances are also assessed to check if you need full or partial funding of your care needs. If care in a home is recommended, local social services can make sure suitable care is made available to you or your family member. People who need a care home place and have less than $23,250 in assets (including their property) are entitled to some financial support from their local councils. Pensioners with capital between $2,500 and $5,250 are entitled to considerable council funding but will have to pay a weekly capital tariff of $1 for each $300 between these two figures. Individuals whose capital is below $15,000 can receive maximum financial support from their local authorities, while care home seekers with capital over $23,250 have to meet the full cost of care.
3. Get professional advice on elderly care
How much does care cost? How can you afford it? How can you get support? To a person who is dealing with elderly care for the first time, these questions may be the first to come to their mind. To avoid confusion, turn to experts in older person care provision which can provide you with an informed opinion on local authority support as well as related financial and tax matters. Their advice can help you make the best use of your financial resources and find the type of care you need.
