Main Features of Long Term Care

Long-term care is designed to help individuals with a chronic disease or disability in performing medical and non-medical tasks. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, most long-term care is provided in the patient's home or that of a family member. However, long-term care is also available in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Services

• The services of a long-term care provider include dressing, bathing, feeding and using the bathroom. A provider may also be responsible for managing medications and performing household chores.

Adult Day Services

• Adult day service programs offer a place for the individual to go while the family member or caregiver is at work. These programs are typically open only during business hours and do not offer 24-hour support.

Case Managers

• To assist the family in managing long-term care, case managers are available to help arrange services, programs and finances, as well as developing a future care plan.

Companion Services

• For individuals living alone, companion services offer short visits to socialize with the individual and provide emotional support. These services are typically staffed by volunteers.

Transportation Services

• Transportation is an important factor in long-term care. Services are offered to those who need to get to and from medical appointments, shopping centers, the post office and other routine destinations.

Meal Programs

• Meal programs are available for those who can't cook for themselves. Volunteers or staff members deliver food daily or weekly.

Chore Services

• Chronically ill or disabled folks may have a difficult time cleaning their home. Chore services help with general household maintenance, including vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, doing laundry and washing dishes.

Respite Care

• Respite care offers families temporary relief from the stresses of caring for their loved one. This type of care can come in the form of sitter-companion services, adult day care or a specialized facility.

Assisted Living

• Individuals who need help with daily activities can choose to move to an assisted living facility. This arrangement provides help with tasks including using the bathroom, taking medicine, eating and bathing. Residents live in their own apartment in the facility.

Nursing Homes

• Nursing homes are an option for those who cannot be cared for at home and need more assistance than an assisted living facility provides. Twenty-four-hour care is available to nursing home patients, along with medical care and rehabilitation services.