Three local nursing homes invite the public to attend a free short seminar on long term care and related financial topics at the Adam Street Community Center on Thursday, July 11th from 3:00 to 4:30pm.  Jodie Armstrong, Marketing and Admissions Director Care Nursing and Rehabilitation explains below the need for knowledge about long term care and the need legal and financial advice:

Change is life’s only constant. Sometimes these changes strike without warning. If you or a loved one has experienced a sudden illness or serious accident, you understand how abruptly everything can change. Are you or a loved one suddenly in need of nursing home care? Finding and affording quality care on short notice can be stressful and draining. We can help you determine the best options for care and how to qualify for Medicaid to help finance them.

Long-term care is expensive, and these costs continue to increase as baby boomers age. According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, the annual cost of care will nearly double in the next 20 years, increasing from $73,000 to $131,800. With improved medical care, the average life span of adults also is increasing; this translates into more years of care at increasingly higher rates. Without some means of financial assistance, these costs could be financially devastating. In fact, your entire life savings could be quickly depleted within a few years of needing long-term care.

This is where Medicaid can help. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program to assist those with low income and limited resources. While Medicare provides limited long-term care coverage, Medicaid is much more extensive. However, because of its restrictions, qualifying for Medicaid can be extremely difficult. But paying for a nursing home without it could be all but impossible.

“We can give you – and your family – peace of mind during a difficult and uncertain time,” said Armstrong.  “When dealing with Medicaid, legal advice is something you cannot afford to go without.”

The seminar is sponsored by Care Nursing and Rehab, OakRidge Manor, and The Chatfield.

For more information call Jodie Armstrong at 325-642-0363.