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.
Historically, 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 (AALTCI) back 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.
If you or a loved one are concerned about issues with estate planning and elder law concerns including Asset Protection/Medicaid Planning and questions regarding long-term care and the nursing home, reach out to us! Book a call with us on our website: www.VAElderLaw.com to see how we can help! We have offices in Bassett, Danville and Lynchburg to serve you.
Reference: National Today (Nov. 1, 2022) “National Long-Term Care Awareness Month - November 2022”
