• Long-term care is available for seniors and the disableda couple of seniors image by Tomasz Parys from Fotolia.com
  
  Some people find themselves in need of long-term care, whether due to disability or from the effects of the aging process. Types of needed care can range from getting to and from appointments to requiring help with all aspects of daily living. Fortunately, long-term care options are available for virtually all types of needs.
  
  

Community Services

• Long-term care does not necessarily mean confinement in an institution. Some individuals can continue to live independently with a little assistance. Many communities offer programs like Meals-on-Wheels where meals are prepared and delivered to the individual's door. Other programs include the availability of senior centers, transportation and assistance with managing financing. These programs may be available at little or no cost to the individual.
  
  

Home Health Care

• Home health care helps individuals who still live at home but need help with daily activities like bathing, cooking and dressing. Medical care is also available in the form of skilled nursing, physical therapy or even hospice care for those suffering from a terminal disease. Medical equipment for chronic conditions is also an option.
  
  

Assisted Living

• Assisted living is a group living arrangement where individuals typically live in a community facility in individual rooms or apartments. Residents are provided help with daily activities like eating and bathing as well as transportation to medical appointments. The residents typically pay monthly rent plus an additional fee for the additional services.
  
  

Continuing Care Retirement Communities

• Community care retirement communities offer assisted living, independent living and full nursing home care in one location. Where one resides depends on the level of care required. Many residents start out living independently, then move to assisted living and/or nursing home units as the need arises.
  
  

Nursing Homes

• Nursing homes typically provide care to those who are unable to care for themselves and need help with daily activities. Services such as skilled nursing care after an extended hospital stay is usually provided. Along with community care retirement communities, nursing homes are the most expensive form of long-term care, and nursing home costs are not covered under Medicare.