With November being designated as Long-Term Care Awareness Month, Daggett Shuler Law examines the needs of those requiring extended care services—and family members who provide it.
The Facts Surrounding Long-Term Care
Approximately 70% of Americans over 65 will require long-term care—often for assistance with basic needs such as bathing, feeding, or dressing. While institutional long-term care can be very expensive, those who care for older relatives at home also pay a price. When family members provide care on their own, they sometimes sacrifice their own well-being. This type of care is often accompanied by both emotional and physical tolls.
Providing Long-Term Care to Loved Ones
Sources estimate 45 million informal caregivers in the U.S. care for relatives. The typical informal caregiver is a 46-year-old female. On average, caregivers spend 21 hours with loved ones every week, and nearly half reduce or eliminate social activities to provide care. Polling shows:
- 78% of adults receiving at-home care rely solely on family and friends
- 92% of those caring for family report significant changes to their work habits
- 41% of those caring for family report having to take a leave of absence
- 37% of those caring for family move from full-time to part-time-work
- 29% of those caring for family have reported dipping into savings
- 11% of those providing informal care have moved closer to their parents or family
Other Considerations in Long-Term Care
Many elect to provide care at home for reasons beyond obligation and financial necessity. Some are deterred from long-term care facilities by reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. A 2013 report by the National Research Council suggests one in 14 cases of elder abuse is reported to the authorities. Abuse usually falls into the following categories:
- Physical abuse—including physical pain or injury through mistreatment
- Emotional abuse—including verbal threats, intimidation, or harassment
- Financial abuse—including the taking, withholding, or misuse of funds
- Physical neglect— not addressing physical or biological needs
We Can Help.
If you suspect a loved one has suffered institutional abuse, contact Daggett Shuler Law for help. An experienced Nursing Home Abuse Attorney can handle your entire case and work to secure fair and just compensation for your loved one.
If you have questions about an institutional abuse claim, call Daggett Shuler at 800-815-5500. When you call, you will speak with a North Carolina Personal Injury Attorney absolutely FREE. We will investigate every detail of your situation at no cost to you—and fight hard to secure the benefits you deserve.
Daggett Shuler Law – You Can Depend on Us