Long term care

New here, and looking for some opinions, and possible direction. My father who is now 80 is dealing with Alzheimers, he is in perfect health otherwise. He lives in North Eastern WI., and still thinks he is independent enough to tool around the back roads. Anyone familiar with the weather extremes up north know that this is not a good thing. Getting lost, confused, and pulling over to walk can be very dangerous, especially in the winter. His wife is doing the best she can, but it is becoming apparent that long term facility care will be required in the next year or so. I live far from them, and I hate myself for not being there to help with his care. All I can hope to do is make sure he is in a safe place when his wife can no longer provide him with the care he will require.

I am specifically looking for long term care insurance that will allow him to be in a safe space as he progresses. I am by no means wealthy, nor is his wife. Together we are hoping to pool our resources, and be proactive with his long term needs. He is a veteran, and has the usual health insurance through medicare, and supplements.

Some illnesses or pre-existing conditions may disqualify you from the long-term care policy..... You generally have to get the insurance BEFORE you need it.

But since he is a Vet, he's eligible for a lot of things. Find an agent or consultant that specializes in Vet care.

Hi Michael.
I’m so sorry you are going through this! Are you an only child? My dad just passed in December 2017 and
I was his primary care giver. He was in a wonderful facility when he passed.
He lived with me, my husband and two sons for 17 years before he started exhibiting signs of dementia.
We knew we could not keep eyes on him 24/7. He was falling at night trying to get to the bathroom
3 feet away. We even kept a commode by his bed. I had already taken his license and car away. 😔
Suggestions:
1) Get in touch with The Cameron Group. They will help you get your dads veterans benefits. It takes a
Good 6-9 months but starting the process now will help you and your mom in the long run. It is pricey
$900 to use them. But trust me, this is not something you want to take on your self.
2) Look into what the best care homes that are near your mom. She will be visiting him every day. Your saying he doesn’t need to go into a home now. Most care homes, assisted livings, if they are really good, have
A 6-8 month waiting period.
3) You May want to look into the state health insurance if dad doesn’t have it already. If he doesn’t, you may
Want to look into that paperwork and someone to help you.
My husband and I are college educated and my husband is in the finance field. All of this paperwork took
Many hours and once you send it to them they constantly send you letters wanting more.
Last, this is a tough one, 😞, I would look into prepaying for funeral expenses soon. The limit in Ma. Was
$15,000. Check what your limit is in your state. Money goes real fast once more care is involved.

I hope this helps. This is something I wished I knew a little earlier.
Wishing you the best!