By William Blanken, Blanken Management
Nearly 70% of people who reach 65 will need some form of long-term care. With odds like that, having a plan isn’t optional—it’s essential. A solid plan protects your quality of life and helps you and your family stay prepared for whatever comes next, medically, financially and personally.
Still, most people put this off. Thinking about aging, illness or mortality isn’t exactly fun. Many only start planning after a crisis hits—a sudden fall, a serious diagnosis or an aging parent who can no longer live safely alone. By then, options are limited, emotions are high and decisions get rushed.
I’ve seen almost every version of aging within my own family. Some relatives passed quickly and unexpectedly. Others navigated long illnesses. Many lived long, steady lives that required increasing support. Some managed at home with help from neighbors and relatives. Others hired caregivers, moved in with family, transitioned to assisted living or entered skilled nursing facilities. Watching all of this shaped how I view my own future. More than anything, I don’t want to be backed into a corner or have someone else make decisions for me under pressure.
The truth is, it’s never too late to start planning, but it does get harder with time, especially in the middle of a crisis. With the right information, anyone can build a clear, realistic and flexible long-term care plan that reflects personal goals and aligns financial resources with future needs.
Long-term care (LTC) isn’t limited to nursing homes. It includes any ongoing help with activities of daily living, bathing, dressing, eating, mobility and more. Care can happen in many settings: your own home, an assisted living community, a memory care facility or a skilled nursing home. The right option depends on your health, independence and support network. Planning ahead lets you choose care based on your preferences rather than whatever is available during an emergency.
Costs can be significant. A private nursing home room averages over $100,000 per year, and even in-home care can run thousands each month. People typically cover these expenses through a mix of personal savings, long-term care insurance, Medicaid and family support. Without a plan, financial strain can escalate quickly.
But, a good LTC plan isn’t just about money it’s personal. Ask yourself: Where would I want to live if I needed daily help? Who do I trust to manage my care? What kind of support would I want or avoid?
Put your answers in writing through advanced directives, a living will and healthcare power of attorney documents. Then share your plans with those who matter. Clear communication prevents confusion, conflict and guesswork later.
And remember: A long-term care plan isn’t something you create once and forget. Health changes. Finances shift. Families evolve. Review your plan every few years or after major life events to keep it aligned with your goals.
Long-term care planning isn’t about expecting the worst, it’s about protecting your independence, dignity and choices. Whether you’re 45 or 75, the right time to start is today.
