South Dakotans Encouraged to Plan for Future Long-Term Care Needs
Press Release
South Dakotans encouraged to plan for future long-term care needs
Public Education Sessions to be held on the Long-Term Care Partnership Program
As the costs of everyday essentials rise, many are not prepared to weather the financial storm should they or a loved one need long-term care. Without long-term care insurance, a nursing home stay could destroy the finances of many South Dakotan families.
The average cost of nursing home care in South Dakota is $4,750 per month, or more than $50,000 per year. Many South Dakotans mistakenly assume Medicare will cover these expenses, but in fact, Medicare pays only a small portion, and only when certain conditions are met. Additionally, many are unaware of the availability of long-term care insurance.
"It is a common misconception that only the elderly should be concerned with long-term care," said Deb Bowman, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Social Services. "The truth is that more than two-thirds of Americans will need some form of long-term care after age 65, and planning ahead is a way to help protect yourself and your family."
The Long-Term Care Partnership Program is a public-private partnership that offers individuals quality, affordable long-term care insurance without depleting their assets. The South Dakota Department of Social Services began offering free education sessions on the program in 2007, as a way to raise awareness about long-term care insurance and the benefits for South Dakotans.
The fall 2008 education session schedule includes stops in 17 locations from September to December. Sessions will include basic information on long-term care, the costs related to it, how to plan for long-term care needs, what Medicare and Medicaid will cover and how the Long-Term Care Partnership Program can help.. The education sessions are free and open to the public. Below are the scheduled times, dates and locations for fall 2008. Each session is scheduled for one hour.
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