National Long-Term Care Awareness Month is observed in November every year. This month-long observance highlights the long-term care needs of men and women over the age of 65, and how they should be assisted in their daily lives. This includes feeding them, bathing them, and assisting them in their daily routine. Above all, it’s also about displaying compassion and making them feel that they’re not alone or neglected. This month is dedicated to those senior adults who do not have access to long-term care because everyone deserves assistance until their final days. Find out how you can participate in National Long-Term Care Awareness Month.
History of National Long-term Care Awareness Month
Since the 17th century, long-term care facilities have existed. Nursing institutions were introduced to the United States by English settlers to help not only the elderly but also orphans and mentally ill people. This tradition persisted until the 20th century when senior folks’ fundamental requirements were met. During the Great Depression in 1929, however, almshouses and long-term care institutions were overburdened as more men and women over the age of 60 needed assistance for both personal and healthcare requirements.By 1965, nursing homes became a rising sector across the United States as more senior citizens opted to outsource long-term care for the late stages of their lives. Not only did they receive assistance for their daily activities, but they also received regular meals and medical attention.Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the nursing care industry focused on upgrading its services to provide senior residents with the high-quality care they demand. The Nursing Home Act was enacted in 1987 to establish the long-term care services to which the elderly are entitled.November was designated as National Long-Term Care Awareness Month by the American Association for Long-Term Care Assistance in 2001. Their purpose was to create awareness of nursing homes in the area and provide information to the elderly so that they might explore this choice once they reach the age of 65. Today, nursing homes have evolved into these modern facilities with WiFi, air-conditioning systems, entertainment areas, and coffee bars.
National Long-term Care Awareness Month timeline
The English settlers introduce nursing care for the elderly, orphans, and mentally ill individuals in the U.S.
The nursing care sector encounters a bump on the road as they get overwhelmed by the Great Depression.
Nursing care for the elderly over the age of 65 becomes a solid industry across the United States.
The American Association for Long-Term Care Assistance declares the month of November as National Long-Term Care Awareness Month.
National Long-term Care Awareness Month FAQs
How much does it cost to avail a room in a nursing care facility?
The average price of a nursing care facility is $93,075 a year for a semi-private room and $105,850 a year for a private room.
Who pays for nursing homes in the U.S.?
The first 20 days of staying in a nursing home are paid for by Medicare.
What do skilled nursing facilities do?
Aside from assisting in their daily activities, nursing facilities also provide short-term post-acute care, intensive nursing care, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy.
How to Observe National Long-term Care Awareness Month
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Spend a day with your grandparents
Treasure the moments with your grandparents while they’re still alive. This month is the perfect time to visit and see how you can assist them in their daily routine. Your presence alone will surely make them smile.
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Volunteer at nursing homes
Some nursing homes accept volunteers and interns to help the elderly. It’s a good act to show empathy and care to senior citizens who need assistance in their everyday life.
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Get long-term care insurance
Look after yourself while you’re young. It’s always wise to get long-term care insurance today and reap its benefits once you reach the age of 65.
5 Interesting Facts About Long-Term Care
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The long-term care industry is expanding
By 2050, it is expected that at least 27 million Americans would need long-term care.
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Alzheimer’s disease is a contributor
The biggest contributor to the elderlies needing long-term care is Alzheimer’s disease.
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The life expectancy of the elderly
The elderly have a 20-year life expectancy after they reach the age of 65.
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Few Americans have long-term care insurance
Only 7.5 million Americans have long-term care insurance, which is only 2.2% of the entire U.S. population.
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Elderly abuse is rampant
Approximately one out of 10 elderly in the U.S. has experienced elderly abuse.
Why National Long-term Care Awareness Month is Important
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We love the elderly
Compassion and empathy for the elderly should be the priority of National Long-Term Care Awareness. We should honor the long lives they lived and make their last stage in life as comfortable as possible.
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We love our grandparents
Every elderly is somebody’s grandparent. Reach out and give a helping hand. You would want others to do the same thing for your grandfather or grandmother.
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They deserve quality care
Elderly care is a right that men and women over 65 should exercise. Access to nursing care and long-term assistance should be readily available to them.
National Long-term Care Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | November 1 | Tuesday |
| 2023 | November 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | November 1 | Friday |
| 2025 | November 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | November 1 | Sunday |
