Understanding Long-Term Care Options

As we age, the question of “what kind of support might I need?” becomes increasingly important. Long-term care (LTC) is not about losing independence — it’s about making sure the right services are in place so older adults can continue living with dignity, safety, and connection.

According to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), nearly 70% of people turning 65 today will need long-term care at some point in their lives. That care may last only a few months for some, but for others, it can extend for years. Planning early means you can make thoughtful choices before a crisis arises.

What Is Long-Term Care?

LLong-term care refers to a wide range of services that help people with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or the natural challenges of aging. These services can meet both personal needs (help with bathing, eating, or getting dressed) and health needs (managing medications, therapy, or nursing).

Importantly, LTC is not one-size-fits-all. It can happen in your home, in community-based settings, or in residential facilities.

Common Long-Term Care Options:

In-Home Care

  • Services: Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming), meal prep, housekeeping, transportation.

  • Best for: Older adults who wish to age in place but need extra support.

    Adult Day Health Centers

  • Services: Supervision, meals, therapeutic activities, medical monitoring.

  • Best for: Individuals needing daytime care, especially when caregivers work.

    Respite Programs

  • Services: Short-term care (hours, days, or weeks) to give family caregivers a break.

  • Best for: Families balancing caregiving with jobs or other responsibilities.

    Assisted Living Communities

  • Services: Residential care with meals, personal support, activities, and socialization.

  • Best for: Older adults who no longer want the responsibilities of living alone but don’t require skilled nursing.

  • Skilled Nursing Facilities (Nursing Homes)

  • Services: 24/7 medical care, rehabilitation, and support for those with complex needs.

  • Best for: Seniors with advanced illness, disabilities, or recovery needs.

  • Hospice & Palliative Care

  • Services: Comfort-focused care for those with serious or terminal illness. Includes emotional, spiritual, and family support.

  • Best for: Individuals with a prognosis of six months or less (hospice) or those managing pain/symptoms at any stage (palliative).

How to Decide What’s Right

Choosing long-term care is as much about values as it is about services:

  • Level of Independence: How much help is needed with daily living?

  • Health Needs: Are medical conditions stable, progressing, or complex?

  • Social Connection: Does the option support opportunities for engagement?

  • Family Caregivers: What level of help can loved ones realistically provide?

  • Finances: What resources (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, savings) are available?

The National Institute on Aging offers detailed guidance on both care choices and ways to pay for them.

SCI’s Role in Coastal Georgia

For more than 65 years, Senior Citizens Inc. has been a trusted provider of long-term care support in our community.

Our services include:

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or supporting a loved one, you don’t have to navigate long-term care decisions alone. Call SCI at 912-236-0363 or fill out the form below, and one of our care navigators will help you take the next step with confidence.