Resources for seniors in need of long-term care — i.e., for seniors no longer capable of living independently. Long-term care can range from scheduled in-home personal assistance services, to residence in assisted-living communities (which provide assistance with daily living activities in addition to limited health care services), to residence in nursing facility (which provide 24-hour medical care).
For independent-living resources, consult our housing resources or our in-home care resources.
This calculator from The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants will help you decide whether it is financially possible and prudent to buy long-term care insurance.
Read Consumer Reports on long-term care coverage. (2012)
Institute of Certified Public Accountants
State trade group for Maine nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The website also contains a searchable list and map of facilities.
A nonprofit agency authorized by state and federal laws to investigate complaints related to nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. Also provides advocacy on behalf of home care service recipients and hospice care recipients.
Hotlines and reporting numbers for reporting elder abuse and violations at nursing facilities and assisted living programs.
A searchable database of all Medicare-certified nursing homes, which includes inspection reports, staffing information and quality indicators (including comparisons to state and national averages). The site also allows you to simultaneously compare up to three nursing homes.
Services and programs designed to delay or avoid nursing home placement for older adults. Services include in-home care, adult day services, and Alzheimer’s respite care.
The Mayo Clinic provides this article on understanding and planning for long-term care needs.
Email us at aging@pressherald.com with your questions. We’ll find an expert who can offer advice and post their response here.
Visit The Challenge of our Age on Facebook to talk with other seniors and caregivers and share advice about issues you’ve faced.
