Paperwork & planning
Long-term care basics (plain language)
Long-term care is about ongoing help with daily life. This page explains the basics and the common misconceptions.
Quick checklist
- Long-term care is help with ADLs (bathing, dressing, meals, supervision).
- Most regular health insurance does NOT cover ongoing custodial care.
- Medicare coverage for long-term care is limited and rule-based.
- Start planning early—waiting until a crisis reduces options.
Common long-term care options
- Home help (family, aides, home health for limited skilled needs).
- Adult day programs and respite services.
- Assisted living (often private pay).
- Skilled nursing facility/nursing home (eligibility + coverage rules).
What to do this week
- List current care tasks and how many hours they take.
- Estimate monthly costs you’re already paying (supplies, rides, time off work).
- Use your state page to identify programs and benefits pathways.