A Little Help Keeps You Strong

Senior ladies walking arm in arm as a group We might all know that asking for help is a better, safer option for accomplishing certain things, but we might choose to struggle to maintain the appearance of being independent. Why does it feel like lending a hand to help others is easier than asking for help when we need it?

Staying Independent

Many of us have raised families, held important careers, and efficiently got things done for decades without batting an eye. Doing things ourselves can be a source of pride from a young age. Once we learn to do something, we do it.

 

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No one wants to admit something is too hard, that they’re too tired, or that they’ve succumbed to an injury or illness. Letting someone else take over can feel unusual and even frustrating—especially later in life. Here are some additional thoughts that may prevent people from asking for the help they need:

 Whoa! Mic drop! Advice like, “You need to move to senior living,” could prevent someone from asking for help ever again—even if they should!

Advice for Helping Senior Loved Ones

If an aging loved one contacts you for help, rally a team. Maybe that’s a few family members with their best interests in mind or perhaps a trusted friend or neighbor. If the help they need is extensive, the team approach can offer relief.

Discuss as a group what service options are available. Consult with providers in the area or work as a team to assist until a helpful decision can be made. Suggesting senior living as an immediate solution to their needs isn’t the best approach to helping—not everyone needs it, and not everyone is ready.

Sometimes, it just takes having peace of mind that someone is available to help for improvements to be made. That could mean hiring caregivers through home care services or even home healthcare staff. Needing help isn’t always permanent.

Say your loved one had a fall and is recovering, or they had an illness that caused them to slow down a bit. In those instances, home health therapies could help them get stronger. A nurse could oversee their care and help them reach their goals right at home.

Home health services can help seniors in private residences or senior living apartments. In either setting, they aim to strengthen their clients so they can do things safely and independently. From hands-on care to education, home care and home health can help seniors prolong their move to senior living if they’re not ready.

Most people put off senior living and moving from the homes they’ve lived in for decades because they want to maintain their independence. In reality, senior living can help encourage each resident to have a voice and keep doing what they can for as long as possible. Residents can choose from a wide range of services to meet their needs.

Prospective residents meet with a nurse before moving in to discuss their abilities and health. Sometimes, independent living is more appropriate for residents who need little support. Care levels can also change after a resident moves in based on what each resident truly needs to maintain their health.

Senior living has evolved into all-around wellness, so those who choose to live in our communities, whether in independent living, assisted living, or memory care, all have access to the services they need to live fulfilled, purposeful lives. If you’d like to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com. We’d love for you to tour and experience senior living firsthand.

Fall In Love with Easy Living!

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Messy hair, don’t care.” But how about “Easy chair, don’t care?” When was the last time you put your feet up, enjoyed a hot cup of coffee, and soaked in the moment?

At Edgewood, we believe easy living is about doing more of what you love and less of what you don’t. With our caring and diligent staff handling the small details of daily living, you can take a break, put your feet up, read the paper, make memories with grandchildren, or meet new best friends. Senior living here is all about falling in love with life again—effortlessly.

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How Do You Like Your Eggs?

At Edgewood, every day is filled with choices that suit your preferences. From choosing how you want your eggs prepared in the morning to staff remembering just how you take your coffee, we ensure each moment feels personalized. It’s not just dining—it’s dining your way. Every corner of our community—from the dining room to the living room—is designed with you in mind.

 

Feel at Home in Your New Community

Moving into a senior living community can feel like stepping into the unknown. But at Edgewood, it’s more of an opportunity to start fresh on a blank canvas. Our dedicated staff are here because they love what they do, and many stay with us for years, building bonds that turn residents into extended family.

When you join our community, kind-hearted staff and residents will welcome you with open arms, helping you navigate your new home and making sure you feel comfortable. Our cozy, inviting atmosphere ensures you’ll feel at home in no time.

 

No Chores, Unless You Want To

Imagine a life where the chores are taken care of for you. At Edgewood, light housekeeping, laundry, dishwashing, yard work, and vacuuming are all covered. But if you enjoy doing certain tasks independently, you’re more than welcome to—the choice is yours. We’re here to handle the rest if you’re busy with exciting plans or want to relax.

 

Activities to Keep You Movin’

That easy chair we mentioned earlier is always an option, but our activities calendar is packed with fun and excitement if you’re feeling energized. Yes, we love BINGO, but that’s just the beginning. There’s always something to look forward to, from arts and crafts to reading at story time with local schoolchildren, community theater outings, and even tailgating at football games. Even during the winter months, our wellness and enrichment teams ensure there’s no shortage of laughter and connection.

 

Our Greatest Amenities: Care and Wellness

While many of our communities offer incredible amenities like movie theaters, chapels, hair salons, workout rooms, and courtyards, our greatest asset is our care and healthcare services. After all, what’s the point of fun activities, delicious meals, and exciting outings if you’re not feeling your best?

At Edgewood, we prioritize wellness with on-site healthcare services, including therapy, home health, and primary care. Our proactive approach features innovative tools like CarePredict watches and 24/7 access to nursing staff, ensuring you have the support you need to feel your best around the clock. By managing chronic conditions and minimizing the effects of aging from the comfort of your home, you’ll enjoy more days filled with energy and ease.

 

Ready to Fall in Love with Senior Living?

There’s no better time to embrace a relaxed, stress-free life. Whether enjoying the small comforts or taking advantage of our many amenities, Edgewood offers everything you need to make aging easy and joyful.

Contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com today to learn why so many seniors choose Edgewood. Your easy living journey starts here!

 

Still On the Fence?

Our short-term stays allow you to try senior living for a week, a month, or the cold winter season without signing a long-term commitment! Beat the winter blues with us, or try on senior living for size! Learn more at edgewoodhealthcare.com.

 

Edgewood Healthcare Expands Services in Mandan, ND

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

News Release

Contact: Robert Ford Jr.

Title: President of Edgewood Healthcare Senior Living Division

Phone: 701-738-2000

(Grand Forks, N.D.)

Edgewood Healthcare of Grand Forks, N.D., is excited to announce its expansion within Mandan, ND. Edgewood has acquired Lakewood Landing, located at 4401 21st St SE, Mandan, ND, and will assume operations, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care residences on January 31, 2025.

Edgewood Mandan at Lakewood will be Edgewood’s fourth community, joining the Bismarck-Mandan area, which includes Edgewood Dominion, Edgewood Village, and Edgewood Mandan. Each community offers independent living, assisted living, memory care services, on-site therapies, home health, hospice, and primary care services.

Edgewood Healthcare’s President, Robert Ford Jr., announced, “We’re thrilled to expand our operations to help even more seniors in the Bismarck-Mandan area to live independently while having the compassionate care they deserve right outside their front door.”

Ford continued, “We’re excited to bring more than three decades of senior living experience and the Edgewood Healthcare brand into our newest community.”

 

About Edgewood Healthcare

Edgewood Healthcare is the leading operator of senior living communities in the upper Midwest. Since 1992, Edgewood has been committed to helping seniors stay as independent as possible, for as long as possible, with well-trained staff members in communities designed for residents to receive various living and care options. Edgewood owns and/or operates more than 60 independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities with over 4,100 beds in seven states (North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Idaho) and employs nearly 3,300 people. Edgewood Healthcare’s corporate offices are at 402 Demers Avenue Ste 200 in Grand Forks, ND 58201.

Save a Life, Donate Blood!

image of woman's arm holding a heart shaped squeeze ball and donating blood

While the excitement of the holidays has totally worn off by now, that’s no time to stop giving. January is National Blood Donor Month, and it’s the perfect time to make a plan for the new year to share the life-saving gift of blood!

According to the American Red Cross, someone in the US needs blood every two seconds! Making a blood donation helps those in need and has surprising health benefits for you, too! If you’re considering donating, here is some additional food for thought:

 

 

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Benefits of Donating Blood:

Getting Started:

Find a local blood drive near you. If you can’t find a drive, consider hosting one with your friends!  Here are links to learn more about hosting blood drives:

American Red Cross

Lifeserve Blood Center

DakMinn Blood Bank

Nebraska Community Blood Bank

Before Donation:

Get plenty of rest, exercise, eat a good meal, and drink plenty of fluids. If you’re not feeling your best, wait until you are to donate.

Donation Day:

You’ll need to bring a photo ID, and depending on which blood bank you work with, you may need to get a donation card to keep.

You’ll receive a name tag and complete a brief health questionnaire with an associate from the blood bank.

Your blood will be tested to determine if the hemoglobin level is suitable for donation (enjoying a meal with lean meat the day before can increase your odds of being approved for donation). After you’re tested, you’ll be seated in a donation chair to begin the process.

Barriers to Donating:

 Not everyone chooses to donate blood. Some people are squeamish around needles or are concerned about it being painful. With professionals guiding the process, it should be relatively painless, and they’re quick to tell you to look away from the needle if it’s not your cup of tea to watch the donation process.

If you’re generally healthy without significant health diagnoses, you should be able to donate.

Some medications and significant health conditions can prevent people from donating blood. If you’re concerned you shouldn’t donate or don’t think you can, always speak with your doctor to learn more, especially if you’re hoping to improve your health.

Make Your New Year Great!

Many people are setting new outcomes for themselves this year; whether you want to donate blood or volunteer, kudos! Helping others leads to true happiness.

If it’s senior living you’re seeking this year, let Edgewood Healthcare help! We offer short-term stays, adult day services, independent living, assisted living, and memory care. To learn how services could help you or someone you love, contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.

Is Senior Living the Next Best Step?

 

Senior women playing cardsMoving to senior living is a big decision that most people put off as long as they can. Often, it takes a major health event or series of accidents before seniors and their loved ones explore senior living.

 

Sadly, when health and abilities are compromised, choosing senior living can feel like a forced decision instead of a new chapter. We always encourage families to help their loved ones explore senior living services sooner, but sometimes, it’s hard to know if they’re struggling.

 

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If your loved one is beginning to show signs that something has changed or you’re concerned that they’re unsafe at home, it’s important to find out why. Visiting their home can offer valuable insight.

After working with families over the past three decades, we’ve developed the helpful list below to serve as thinking points. If your family member hits a few of these, it may not indicate it’s time for them to move, but perhaps it lets you know they need more help to be safe.

 

Kitchen/Dining Room:

Living Room:

Bathroom:

Laundry Area/Linens:

Bedroom:

Garage/Mud Room:

Medications:

Miscellaneous Health & Safety:

Next Steps

Be sure that your loved one consults with their medical provider to understand the reasons behind their changes and ask if they have recommendations for their future. In-home services such as home health therapy, nursing visits, or home care can help monitor your loved one’s health and safety and ensure their well-being. However, if multiple concerns arise, or your loved one isn’t safe during the overnight hours, it may be time to consider senior living options. Edgewood offers adult day services, short-term stays for temporary support, and assisted living, memory care, and independent living options. To learn more, contact us at info@Edgewoodhealthcare.com.

 

 

Keep Your Skin Healthy This Winter

 

Now that the holidays are over and the goodies are gone let’s focus on feeling our best this winter! Our skin is one of the largest organs in our body.

As we know, cold weather and being cooped up inside can affect our skin health. So, let’s get ahead of that dry, crackly, itchy wintertime skin and keep your skin healthy and happy this winter!  Here are eight friendly tips for having great skin:

1. See Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing skin changes or breakdowns, visit your primary care provider to find out why. They can either provide education and treatment options, or they can be your first step to determining whether you need to see a dermatologist for your condition. Being prompt about seeing your provider is very important if you’re experiencing skin breakdown, have a history of wounds, or have a diagnosis of diabetes. To avoid complications, it is best to see your healthcare professional early on before you before a skin concern escalates into a wound.

 

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2. Stay Hydrated

Try to drink eight glasses of water per day. Staying hydrated can benefit your body both inside and out.

3. Use a Humidifier or Boil Liquids

Winter air can dry out your skin and your home. Whether you’re a tea drinker or enjoy cooking homemade soups for your family, boiling liquids can work similarly to a humidifier in your kitchen/dining area. Consider a humidifier or multiple humidifiers around your house if you have a large home with many rooms.

4. Stay Clean, but not Too Clean

Showering or bathing too frequently can cause skin irritation. Since each person’s activity levels differ, figure out a bathing schedule that suits your needs and makes your skin happy.

5. Exfoliate

There are many fun exfoliating body washes, but they don’t make your shower or tub slippery. No one needs to suffer a fall.

6. Moisturize & Wear Sunscreen

High-quality moisturizers are helpful for your entire body, especially if you’re exfoliating. Even in the winter, sunscreen can protect your skin and help prevent future damage.

7. Don’t Scratch

Avoid scratching or scrubbing too hard if you develop a rash or dry skin issue. Friction can result in open skin, which may temporarily alleviate the itch but can cause real trouble if it turns into a wound.

8. Be Careful When Choosing Cleanser

Harsh chemicals in soaps and laundry products can dry your skin or cause rashes. Opt for organic varieties (with low or no scent) if you can.

Handwashing is always important, especially during flu season and the cold months. Be sure to opt for skin-friendly varieties of handwash, too. Too much washing can cause red, chapped hands. Keep a nice moisturizing lotion nearby over the winter to combat drying out your hands.

Speaking of hands, are you ready to wash your hands of laundry, chores, and other tasks around your home? Winter with us at Edgewood! We’ve got chores covered and even healthcare staff right on-site.

Seeing doctors and staying healthy during the cold months can be challenging if you no longer drive or prefer not to venture onto snowy roads. A seasonal stay at Edgewood could make you healthy and strong to return to your home. Receive the gift of socialization, amazing food, and good health, so you’ll be in good shape to enjoy your spring and summer!

Email us at info@edgewood.com, or drop into a community near you for a tour to see what it’s all about. Our seasonal or short-term stays can be a great way to try senior living before you fully commit to signing a long-term lease.

A Little Gratitude Goes a Long Way!

Female residents with coffee cups in hand

It’s just about “New Year, New Me” time already. Whether you rocked your personal goals in 2024 or are still plugging away, celebrate even the smallest wins. Life is tough, and a positive mindset can be a great way to face it.

When circumstances aren’t what we hoped for, or life gives us lemons, it can be easy to fall into a negative mood—especially if we’re not feeling our best. Reflecting on situations that left you feeling cheated can play repeatedly in your mind, leading to more bad days than good. Why not try a little gratitude instead?

 

 

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Gratitude Helps Foster Happiness

By choosing to be grateful every day, you may end up healthier and happier. Studies suggest that gratitude may help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Thinking of the good in our lives won’t erase the bad, but it could help you start the new year out right.

Consider keeping a gratitude journal instead of declaring a New Year’s resolution. By writing down how grateful you are for all the good in your life, you might be able to reframe your thoughts and maybe even outweigh the negative ones.

Starting a Gratitude Journal

Journaling may take practice if it’s been a while since you’ve put the pen to paper or if it’s new to you. Whether you want to use a basic notebook, an actual gratitude journal, or your notes app, jot down your thoughts.

Start small. Choose a quiet place and time of day to journal. For starters, write down or type up to five things that make you feel grateful.

Focus not only on what you’re thankful for but also on why. The things you list can be relatively small in importance (“I am grateful for the delicious salad I had for lunch today”) or a major life event (“My sister gave birth to a healthy baby”).

Journaling aims to help you practice choosing good thoughts and reminders about positive aspects of your life. Remembering something good in your life and then reassociating emotions with it can help you reframe how you think and how long you focus on negative events or situations.

As you write, here are some important ideas:

Write with Details:

Going into detail about a particular person or accomplishment you’re grateful for has more benefits than jotting down a basic list. The more specific you can be, the more you might spark fond memories. Try to record unexpected or surprising events, which may elicit even stronger feelings of gratitude.

Get Personal & Use Variety

Write about the people and successes in your life that bring you joy. Journal about how long you’ve known the people you’re grateful for or how you met. Consider adding selfies or pictures to your gratitude journal to reflect on happier times if you’re going through a period of the blahs.

Thinking of your life’s good relationships or wins as gifts helps you avoid taking them for granted. What would life look like without your best friend or things that bring you security, like your job, car, or home?

Be grateful for the negative outcomes you avoided, escaped, prevented, or turned into something positive—try not to take that good fortune, health, and loved ones for granted. Consider all of the positives as special gifts.

Write Consistently:

Whether you write daily or every other day, commit to a regular time. Do your best to keep journaling about what you have in your life, and look back on it if you’re feeling down.

We wish you all the best in 2025! If you’re exploring senior living or helping someone you love find care in their later chapters, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com. In addition to offering excellent care and cozy surroundings, we’re helping seniors stay healthy, active, and engaged. Learn more at www.edgewoodhealthcare.com.

6 Tips for a Better Winter

 

Senior and female child looking at a book inside of a library

Winter turns the world into a playground—where kids (and the young at heart) revel in the magic of snowflakes, snowball fights, and the joy of building snowmen. Even a pesky winter storm can go from dreaded news to the start of cherished memories in an instant.

But let’s be honest—there comes a point when winter’s charm fades. The icy chill and endless gray days start to weigh on us. Cabin fever creeps in, and we catch ourselves daydreaming about escaping to sun-soaked beaches.

 

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If you feel like winter has overstayed its welcome, you’re not alone. Here are six tips to help you find light and warmth, even in the coldest months.

 1. Make The Most of Your Indoor Space

Make the space where you’ll be the most, the coziest it can be. Pull out the comfy blankets, flannel sheets, and warm socks.

Put out magazines or books and add candles (please use candles with caution) around your home to create a warm atmosphere. The darkness winter brings can be brightened up in a flash, while your house gets a nice appealing scent, too.

2. Stay Social

Mental health can be difficult to manage during the winter months if you spend them alone. If you think the season will be bad for your well-being, contact your healthcare provider to discuss your needs as soon as possible.

Be sure to connect with others throughout the season, whether in person or through social media and video chats. If your contacts aren’t as tech-savvy, keep some high-quality paper, fun writing utensils handy, and plenty of stamps to stay in contact via mail this winter. Everyone appreciates getting something fun in the mail!

3. Keep Your Skin Soft

 Cold, dry air can damage skin and lips. Stock up on good moisturizing products and keep them handy.

Use high-quality skin care products for your hands, legs, arms, and heels. Make sure that what you use isn’t too old or outdated, as it may not be as effective as you’d like. Be cautious of overly scented creams or lotions, as those can irritate the skin.

Keep plenty of lip balm on hand. Consider having a spare balm in your car, next to your favorite chair, and by the bed to stay moisturized.

Cracked skin that doesn’t heal properly can cause infections. Skin breakdown and wounds can be painful, forcing you out of your nice, warm house to find expensive treatments in a cold, icy city.

4. Stay Hydrated

 Having plenty of fluids will help your winter skin and your overall well-being. Maintaining good hydration can ward off colds, the flu, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) and help your digestive system work better.

Plain old tap water can get boring. Mix it up with fun additions like frozen cranberries and low-calorie mix-ins, or boil up your favorite tea to keep warm. Hot chocolate on a cold day can also be super fun for the kiddos!

5. Try Some Winter Exercises

 Winter offers a variety of activities for all skill levels and interests. Snowshoeing is an excellent workout, but you might feel it for a bit afterward.

Skating, cross-country skiing, and sledding are also great ways to pass the time and get outside in nature—don’t forget to make snow angels while you’re out there!  If those activities aren’t your cup of tea, bundle up, put on supportive boots (adding ice cleats can help), and walk outside. Even walking around the block or short distances can be helpful to get fresh air and a little movement.

6. Stay Active Indoors

If you need to get moving but the weather keeps you indoors, search the Internet for virtual classes. There are also many free options on YouTube that can match your interests and skill level. If you have questions about your ability to be active, check with your doctor before you start.

Spring cleaning is a popular term, but once it’s nicer outside, that’s where most of us want to be. Get a leg up on your spring cleaning by doing it in the winter when the conditions outside are unfavorable. Cleaning can be exercise, too!

Ready to hit the easy button this winter? Get a sneak peek into the good life with a short-term stay at Edgewood! Stay for the season and spend your days socializing, eating delicious meals, and staying active without fully committing to a permanent move. We’ve even got healthcare options on-site to help you feel your best. Email us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com to learn more.

Eat, Drink, & Be Merry this Season

Two senior female residents looking merry in red holiday sweaters

Ahh, the holiday parties are upon us. From charcuterie boards to egg nog and relaxing by warm fires, make it memorable this year by feeling your best. Eating, drinking, and being merry without missing any good stuff is 100% possible!

Food is a big part of family togetherness and holidays. However, as we age, our bodies—and bellies may not bounce back as quickly from one too many sweets, skipping a few glasses of water, or losing sleep. Little things can become big things, and sometimes those big things can make us miss an occasion. Thankfully, we’ve got some helpful ideas to take it ALL in.

 

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This season, aim for flexibility in your routine. There’s no need to forgo the cheesecake or drag the whole family out to a 5k—if you do, that’s fantastic, but think about a little balance this year. Staying in good health may help you enjoy all of the wonderful memories the season has to offer with your family and friends by your side!

8 Tips to Enjoy the Season:

 

Eat Up

We know “Calories don’t count during the holidays,” but extra creamy foods combined with sugar, sugar, and more sugar can wreak havoc. No one has time to spend the season trapped in the bathroom or writhing in pain in the fetal position from a stomachache. Eat all the things, but throw in a green salad or two for better results.

Say Cheers

Shoot for beverages low in sugar, and stay mindful of what’s in your cup this season! Cocktails are pretty and fun but enjoy them carefully so they don’t affect your health. With some planning, you can create beautiful “mocktails” that are low in calories and that the kiddos can enjoy as well.

Keep Moving

Maybe you’re away from your gym or typical exercise routine. Perhaps an inch of ice makes your morning run or walk risky. To get around this, work in small bits of exercise, such as range-of-motion exercises, short walks around the house, or pop on YouTube and work out to a video. Try to keep your body moving; it will thank you!

Make Time for Self-Care

Doing what your body needs to stay healthy is not selfish! Take a bath, drive, drink tea, or enjoy a book or two. Family time is great, but little breaks can keep you enjoying the occasion for the long haul.

Keep Your Medication Routine

Forgotten medications or not tracking blood sugars can lead to unwanted effects, such as ER visits or missing special occasions. Set reminders to take your prescribed medications if you need to. Also, remember to test your blood sugar if you’re diabetic, and be mindful of your diet.

Get Your Zs

It’s easy to stay up late and get up early to enjoy everyone’s company. Be sure to rest when you’re tired, even if it’s a nap here and there; sleep can make a big difference in enjoying every minute of your gatherings.

Wash Up

December is hand-washing awareness month; celebrate by scrubbing up! Celebrations can mean that germs are everywhere. When your adorable little relative hands you a cookie with their questionable mitts, we will probably eat it; there’s no question. However, if that cookie will set you over the edge because they’ve already given you 5, here’s an idea: tell them you’d like to save it so you can think about them later while you enjoy it. It’s a heart-warming way to accept the gift and keep their little heart happy!

Celebrate How & Where it Works Best

 If kiddos or anyone else is sick, consider rescheduling for everyone’s benefit. Those with multiple health conditions or who are in advanced age can have a much tougher time recouping from common colds and the flu. Be flexible so everyone can enjoy the occasion without compromising their health. Togetherness is far more important than the actual date when it comes down to honoring any occasion.

We hope you have the most enjoyable holiday season and stay healthy to savor all the hugs and goodies! Are you planning to celebrate with your loved one who’s an Edgewood resident this year? Let us know in advance, and we’d be happy to find you a space to help you celebrate where everyone can be comfy. If you have questions about senior living services, contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.

 

How to Be Prepared for Long-Term Care

 

As we gear up for a busy holiday season filled with loved ones, laughter, and festive gatherings, it’s also important to know that November is Long-Term Care Awareness Month. It’s the perfect time to start thinking ahead. Being informed and prepared can make all the difference, and exploring long-term care insurance is one way to get ahead of the game. Just keep in mind not everyone may qualify.

As we explain the ins and outs of long-term care policies using helpful information from the AARP, please be mindful that every insurance policy is individualized. Each long-term care insurance company offers different coverage, and time frames for using benefits will vary. If you’re shopping, contact a reputable long-term care insurance carrier near you for the best policy information. If you’re issued a policy, stay informed about what it includes.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Care Policies:

When should I buy long-term care insurance?  

The earlier, the better! Participants can be denied coverage due to advanced age. A health exam and a true health history report are required to be issued a policy. Because age-related conditions can worsen over time and health catches up with people, exploring policies sooner rather than later is best.

Does a long-term care insurance policy start automatically?

Policyholders may be required to pay for services out of pocket for up to 180 days before benefits kick in, a period similar to a grace period but often called an “elimination period.” Each policy will offer a different elimination period before benefits can be used.

What has to happen before I qualify to use my policy?

Before benefits are approved, policyholders need to require some help with several activities of daily living, or “ADLs.” ADLs include eating, bathing, dressing, using the restroom, and getting in and out of bed and chairs. Once you can no longer perform these activities due to a physical or cognitive decline, long-term care policies may take effect after the policy’s elimination period.

Will the policy cover me for the whole time I need long-term care?

There are limited and unlimited policies available. Limited may cover policyholders for a couple of years, whereas unlimited will cover their needs for the duration. This article’s major takeaway is that every policy and situation is different. For questions on individual coverage, it’s best to speak with your agent to confirm how your benefits will work.

Are there conditions that prevent people from receiving a policy?

Yes. Alcohol and substance abuse are common conditions or instances that may prevent policies from being issued. Pre-existing conditions such as cancer or stroke can result in a denial of a policy, along with having a criminal record.

Once a policy is issued, holders may also lose eligibility for coverage. Reasons for a loss in coverage can include a cognitive impairment (including a diagnosis of dementia), terminal illness, pre-existing condition, or failure to provide an accurate health history.

Can I get my premiums for a long-term care policy refunded if I am disqualified?

Maybe. It depends on what your policy states and the reason you were disqualified. For policyholders who pass away before using benefits, their families may be entitled to a death benefit. This varies depending on your policy.

What is an inflation rider?

The costs of living rise every year—some years more than others. An inflation rider is an additional option that can be purchased to account for variable and rising inflation costs. With an inflation rider, policyholders may receive extra funds paid monthly to adjust for rising costs of care.

Additional ways to pay for long-term care:

Medicaid typically covers assisted living, memory care services, and skilled nursing facility care. Each facility is different in whether or not they accept Medicaid funds. Medicaid rules differ in every state. If you’re exploring Medicaid, it’s best to speak with your local county aging and disability benefits office to determine your eligibility.

Should you qualify for Medicaid, please know that not all long-term care facilities accept Medicaid as payment. Some organizations may have restrictions like paying for care out of pocket for months or years before Medicaid funds can be used. Each long-term care residence will have different rules. If you have a specific building or community in mind, it’s best to ask them about their policies on accepting Medicaid.

Medicare does not pay for assisted living or memory care. However, skilled nursing facilities, aka nursing homes, can be covered under Medicare if patients meet specific requirements. Medicare typically has a maximum number of days to approve patients requiring long-term residence in a skilled nursing facility.

Edgewood offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care if you’re looking to downsize or require care. If you have questions about how to afford care, contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.