Long-term care planning is about taking measures to ensure you are equipped for any support or services you may need in later life. It’s about ensuring any compensation award and any right to means-tested benefits are protected. It is also about maximising your financial security.
Types of care
There are various forms of care or support you might need which are likely to change with time.
Initially, independence may be your focus, so sheltered accommodation or assisted living may be appropriate. With these, help is on hand in an emergency and a warden can provide limited assistance.
Domiciliary care is an option whereby a carer can help with daily activities such as personal care, at home.
A newer form of care is emerging which is called live-in care. This is where you have a carer around the clock to assist you with day to day living.
It may be that you will only need short term care. This is known as reablement care which is centred around keeping you living independently.
A care home may be the next best step, either residential or nursing care - or both.