When you think of long-term care you may imagine hospice or nursing homes for the elderly. These are examples of long-term care needed by certain demographics of people. However, even the youngest, healthiest, and strongest of people may end up requiring long-term care in the event of a serious accident or injury. When you sustain an injury that significantly impacts your quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks it can be overwhelming and disheartening. However, there are various care options for you to choose from during your recovery period. For more information on the various types of long-term care and insurance policies, an experienced Bergen County injury lawyer can help.
What is Long Term Care?
Long-term care is simply medical care that comes in the form of various continuing services. Depending on the extent of your injuries you may need care for several months, years, or potentially for the rest of your life. This type of assistance can be necessary for people whose injuries prevent them from performing daily tasks. Caregivers can offer assistance with giving you food or drink, bathing you, dressing you, giving you mental or physical therapy, managing your pain, driving you around, helping you run errands, and more. Long-term care can come from your family/friends, medical/care professionals, or a combination of the two.
What Accidents or Injuries Require Long-Term Care?
People may require long-term care for a variety of reasons. Particularly catastrophic and damaging accidents like car crashes or workplace accidents can cause severe bodily harm. The effects of these events can incapacitate a person for any length of time. Some injuries that may require long-term care can include the following.
- Broken bones
- Spine and spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Burns
- Loss of limbs
- Disfigurement
Any of the above or other serious injuries can cause a person to be physically or mentally incapable of living their day-to-day life without assistance. Any long-term or permanent disability can result in the need for long-term care.
What Are My Options?
If you or a loved one have suffered any of the above injuries there are several long-term care options that you can select from to suit your needs. The following are the main care options that people generally choose.
- Home health care: You can have an aide or nurse come to your home to offer care. They can help with daily tasks and medical needs while the patient remains in the comfort and privacy of their own home.
- Assisted living facilities: You or your loved one can also live at an assisted living facility where you can maintain some independence while having the necessary supervision and help to perform certain activities.
- Nursing homes: Nursing homes are a popular option for some, offering a place to stay or live where you can receive round-the-clock nursing care and assistance.
There are also adult day care options, rehabilitation centers, and potential help from your family or community. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer today for more information and skilled assistance.
