PSA)—With today’s technology, st in touch with loved ones around th ntry—and the world—is easier than its ever been. We are connected to each othervirtually day and night— from cell phones and videocalls to social media, texting and e-mail. While we mayrely onthis technological closeness throughout the year, the holidays offer a unique opportunity to sit and spend time with family members, particularly older family members, whom we don't see on a regular basis. ‘This face-to-face time provides a chance to connect, catch up, and observe behaviors that may go undetected over the phone or through e-mail. Certain changes in these behaviors from year to year may indicate a need for long-term care. While each passing year will show some changes in an older family mem- ber’s capabilities and function, the table at right provides common changes in behavior to watch for to get a better idea of where your loved ones stand functionally. It’s important not to focus on the behavioritself, but rather the change in that behavior compared to what is considered normal for that person. For example, someone whohas always been quiet and somewhatintroverted would be held to a different standard than someone who is usually very outgoing and conversational, but now seems withdrawn and isolated. Based on the information you gather, it may be time to start thinking about your family’s plan for long-term care. The time to plan is now Millions of Americans require longterm care at some point during their lifetime.* ‘This type of care includes assistance with everyday activities like bathing, dressing and eating, or supervision due to a severe cognitive impair- ment like Alzheimer’s disease. Surprisingly, the type of care neededto provide assistance with these activities can be expensive and is generally not covered by traditional health plans or Medicare. In many cases, taking care of an older relative often falls on family members or friends. However, depending on the location of family membersandfriends, this support is often not available or may be a bigger challenge than many expectorare willing to take on. Take a closer look By paying attention to some com- mon behaviors, you can begin to determine whethera loved one is having dif- Home For The Holidays Recognizing Change Foe peanpedeepen Cleanliness of the home: O O O O O Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo Areactivities like regular bathing, laundry, oO Oo Oo oO Oo Level of independence: Has the level of reliance on a spouse or guest for various things increased (e.g., getting a glass of water, answering the phone or doorbell, etc.)? Oo oO Oo Oo Oo Financial health: Are bills piling up, being paid on time, etc.? Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo Mental sharpness: Is your loved one participating in conversations, staying up-to-date with the newsor favorite sports team, etc.? Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo Oo oO @ Is there clutter in the hallways, stacked mail, uncleaned dishes, etc.? Social interaction: Are they engaged with friends and family, getting out and about, and continuing social interaction at their normal level? Personal hygiene and care: grooming, etc., taking place? Nutritional balance: Maintaining normal eating habits, food within “pest by” ranges, cupboards stocked, etc.? This chart can help you assess your loved one’s strengths and needs. ficulty performing everyday activities. Noticing changes in behavior that may be due to an emerging physical or cog- provide valuable information such as an step. providers, where available. The FLTCIP, nitive impairment is an importantfirst Based on what you observe, the Fed- eral Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) may be worth considering when developing your family’s plan for long-term care. Howdid you answer? Mostly unchanged.Thebest time for you and your family membersto consider long-term care insurance is long before it’s needed. Because the FLTCIP is medically underwritten, it’s important to apply while yourestill in good health to avoid the risk that a future illness or medical condition may prevent you from obtaining coveragelater. Also, premiumsare directly related to age. ‘This means that premiumstend to be lower for younger applicants. Recognized changes. If you're already a FLTCIP enrollee and recognize some of these behavioral changes in a loved one, contact a FLTCIP care coor- dinator at the phone number provided at right to gather important information about the different care options that may beavailable. A call to one of their licensed health care practitioners can assessmentof need, direction on devel- oping a plan for long-term careservices, and access to discounted services and unlike most long-term care insurance plans, provides certain care coordination services to qualified relatives of enrollees at no cost. FLTCIPeligibility Many membersofthe federal family are eligible to apply for coverage under the FLTCIP, including federal and US. Postal Service employees and annui- tants, as well as active and retired mem- bers of the uniformed services. Qualified relatives such as spouses, domestic partners, parents and parents-in-law, and adult children are also eligible to apply. For a completeeligibility list, visit www.LTCFEDS.com/eligibility. To learn more about the FLTCIP, visit www.LTCFEDS.com. For personalized assistance, call (800) LTC-FEDS (800) 582-3337)/TTY (800) 843-3557 to speak with a program consultant. Consultants are available to answer any questions you may have and can walk you step by step throughthe plan design and application process. Best wishesfor a happy,healthy holiday season with yourfriends and family. * Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Long-Term CareServices in the United States,’ www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nsitcp/long_term_care_services_2013.pdf (accessed March 2015). FLTCIP6451
