People who are older and require help with basic tasks of living – bathing, dressing, personal care, housekeeping or preparing meals – are candidates for long-term care services. Long-termCare.gov estimates that as many as 70 percent of people turning 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives.

Why Would I Need Long-term Care?

Reasons for needing long-term care include:

• Age. The older you are, the more likely you will need long-term care.
• Gender. Women outlive men by about 5 years on average and so they are more likely to live at home when they are older.
• Disability. Having an accident or chronic illness that causes a disability. 69 percent of people age 90 or more have a disability.
• Health status. A chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure makes you more likely to need care.
• Living arrangements. If you live alone, you’re more likely to need paid care than if you’re married or living with a partner.

Where can I get Long-term Care Services?

If you have a medical issue or a disability, many long-term care options are available to you. You can get services in:

• Your own home.
• A daytime program in your community.
• A residential setting, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility.

How do I Pay for Long-term Care?

Many people think that Medicare will pay for their long-term care expenses, but this usually is not true. Instead, people have to rely on their savings, long-term care insurance or Medicaid to cover the costs.

And while Medicaid pays for the largest share of long-term care services, to qualify your income and assets must be below a certain level and you must meet the minimum state eligibility requirements. To find out if you might be eligible for Medicaid or to apply for benefits, visit the Your Texas Benefits website.