What to Do When a Loved One Needs Long-Term Care: A Caregiver’s Checklist
Discovering that a loved one needs long-term care can be overwhelming, especially when a sudden fall or unexpected illness forces quick decisions. From locating assisted living after a skilled rehab stay to vetting in-home service providers, or even moving in temporarily with a parent while care is arranged, there are many critical choices to make in a short span of time.
We will guide you through a comprehensive caregiver’s checklist—offering actionable steps grounded in both practical considerations and legal know-how. Whether you’re new to caregiving or an experienced family supporter, our goal is to equip you with the tools, resources, and confidence you need to safeguard your loved one’s well-being and your own during this challenging period.
Navigating the Long-Term Care Maze
Long-term care planning isn’t just about reacting to a crisis—it’s about recognizing gradual changes and preparing for the evolving needs of a loved one. While some health concerns develop suddenly, many signs of declining physical or cognitive health emerge over time. Subtle shifts, such as difficulty managing daily tasks, increasing forgetfulness, or a decline in mobility, can indicate that additional support may be necessary.
Caregiving isn’t just an immediate response; it’s an ongoing process that requires balancing physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Many caregivers find themselves taking on more responsibilities as needs grow, often facing financial strain from out-of-pocket expenses for medical care, home modifications, and everyday necessities. Recognizing these challenges early allows families to explore long-term care options, financial resources, and support systems to ensure both the caregiver and their loved one can navigate this journey with greater stability and peace of mind.
Whether you’re arranging short-term care or developing a longer-term care strategy, here are a few critical steps to address right away to protect your loved one’s well-being and create a sustainable plan for the future.
[Call Out: Wondering how to talk to your family member about their long-term care plan? Check out our blog on talking to parents about their quality of life.]
When to Call An Elder Law Attorney Who Knows Medicaid
Speaking to an elder law attorney with Medicaid experience as soon as there is any indication that you or a loved one might need in-home or facility-based care is crucial to understanding all your options for funding care that can average up to $10K monthly.
Whether you’re exploring nursing home placement, in-home care, or transitioning from private pay, an elder law attorney can offer tailored advice on spend-down strategies, spousal protections, and estate planning documents that align with Medicaid requirements. By involving a professional early on, you can avoid costly mistakes, ensure compliance, and rest assured you’re making the most informed choices for your family’s financial and legal well-being.
There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding Medicaid eligibility. Some families assume they have too much income or too many assets to qualify, while others believe they must spend down nearly everything before seeking help. In reality, the rules are complex, and strategic planning can help protect assets while ensuring access to quality care.
Consulting an attorney who specializes in Medicaid can clarify these misconceptions, navigate eligibility requirements, and prevent costly mistakes that could jeopardize future coverage. Seeking advice early allows families to make informed decisions and secure the best possible care without unnecessary financial sacrifice.
Find out more about common Medicaid misconceptions and let us help you navigate eligibility
Ohio-Specific Resources and Agencies
Fortunately, Ohio has a number of resources to help family caregivers. Below are a list of valuable resources:
Ohio Department of Aging: This state agency provides a comprehensive range of services for seniors and their caregivers, including resources for home care, community-based services, and financial assistance.
PASSPORT Program: A Medicaid waiver program that enables eligible seniors to receive in-home care services, thereby reducing the need for nursing home placement.
Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA): A nonprofit organization designated by the State of Ohio, WRAAA offers services and programs that provide older adults with access to information, assistance, consultation, and long-term care services.
Benjamin Rose WeCare Program: This telephone- and email-based care coordination program helps support family caregivers in getting the support they need to provide good care while caring for their own health and well-being.Courage to Caregivers: An organization dedicated to supporting caregivers through various programs, including one-to-one caregiver peer support, support groups, and breathing meditation classes, aiming to help caregivers manage stress and improve their well-being.
Essential Legal Documents for Long-Term Care
During a caregiving crisis, having the right legal documents in place can make all the difference. Here are a few documents you’ll need to ensure that you can make decisions for your loved one:
Financial Power of Attorney: In Ohio, the authority granted by a Financial Power of Attorney (POA) must be extremely specific to allow you to handle certain critical matters—especially when planning for long-term care. Simply having a POA does not automatically grant you the power to take necessary actions, such as applying for Medicaid or creating and managing trusts. Ohio has some of the strictest requirements in the country, meaning you must have the absolute right authority stated explicitly in the document.
If your loved one is incapacitated, a properly executed POA allows you to manage their financial affairs, including paying bills and overseeing accounts. However, most standard POA documents do not provide enough authority to support long-term care planning. Without clear provisions, you may be unable to establish or modify trusts, transfer assets, or file for Medicaid on their behalf—steps that are often essential for preserving assets and securing care.
If your current POA does not explicitly grant these powers, an updated document is urgently needed. Without the right legal authority, you could face significant roadblocks that may jeopardize your loved one’s financial security and access to care. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help ensure your POA includes the necessary provisions to fully protect your loved one’s future.
Healthcare Power of Attorney: This is a crucial legal document that grants you the authority to make medical decisions on behalf of a loved one if they become unable to do so themselves. In Ohio, this document must be carefully drafted to ensure it provides the necessary powers while complying with the state’s strict legal requirements. Without a properly executed Healthcare POA, even close family members may not have the right to make critical healthcare choices, potentially leading to delays in treatment and legal complications.
A well-crafted Healthcare POA allows you to make a range of medical decisions, including:
Approving or refusing medical treatments based on your loved one’s wishes or best interests.
Choosing healthcare providers and facilities, such as deciding between in-home care or a nursing facility.
Accessing medical records and communicating with doctors, ensuring you have the information needed to make informed choices.
Making end-of-life decisions, including consenting to or withdrawing life-sustaining treatments if your loved one is terminally ill.
Worried about having the right authority to help your family member? Find out more about our Estate Planning options HERE.
Creating a Caregiver’s Checklist
When caring for someone in an emergency situation, staying organized can make all the difference. A comprehensive checklist can help you keep track of everything you need to do. Here’s a breakdown of key items:
Medical Checklist:
Doctor’s contact information
Current medications and dosages
Known allergies
Health insurance information (policy numbers, provider contacts)
A list of recent medical appointments and diagnoses
Financial Checklist:
A list of monthly bills and financial obligations
Bank account and credit card information including online passwords
List of owners and beneficiaries for all financial accounts
Insurance policies (health, life, auto, homeowners, etc.)
Outstanding loans or debts
Legal Checklist:
Ensure Powers of Attorneys are in place and filed with financial institutions
Ensure you have the original Will and it is is up to date
Verify beneficiaries are up to date and listed on insurance policies
Contact information for your elder law attorney, financial advisor, and case worker
Communication Plan:
Set up a family group text or email thread to share updates quickly
Make sure key people in your support network are informed and involved in decision-making
Financial and Benefits Considerations
In addition to the medical and legal logistics, financial considerations will play a significant role in your caregiving journey.
Here are a few to keep in mind:
Medicaid in Ohio: Medicaid can assist with long-term care, but eligibility is determined by factors like income, assets, and medical necessity. Speak to an elder law attorney experienced in Medicaid regulations.
Veterans Benefits: Veterans and their families may be eligible for financial assistance for long-term care. Be sure to explore these benefits if applicable.
Private Long-Term Care Insurance: If your loved one has long-term care insurance, check their policy to determine coverage options.
If you’re facing financial strain, it’s essential to understand your options, including potential resources for assistance.
Supporting your own well-being: Preparing for the long-term care journey
Caring for a loved one is a long-term commitment that can be physically, emotionally, and financially demanding. Caregiver burnout is a real risk, and without proper support, the stress can become overwhelming. Taking care of yourself isn’t just beneficial—it’s necessary for sustaining your ability to provide care over time. Prioritizing self-care means scheduling regular breaks, seeking emotional support from friends, family, or caregiver support groups, and recognizing when to ask for help. It’s also important to set realistic expectations and boundaries, acknowledging that you cannot—and should not—do everything alone.
In addition to the physical and emotional toll, caregiving often comes with a significant financial burden. Many caregivers find themselves paying out of pocket for medical supplies, home modifications, transportation, and even daily necessities, which can strain their own financial stability. Unexpected costs can quickly add up, making it essential to explore available resources, such as Medicaid programs, respite care services, and financial planning assistance. Addressing the financial impact of caregiving early on can help prevent long-term hardship and ensure that both you and your loved one have the support needed to navigate this journey.
As you focus on your loved one’s well-being, don’t forget to take care of yourself, too. Just like on an airplane, where you’re instructed to put on your own oxygen mask before helping others, maintaining your own health—physically, emotionally, and financially—is essential for being the best caregiver you can be. By prioritizing your own well-being in addition to your loved one’s needs, you’ll be better equipped to provide quality care and sustain your role as a caregiver for the long haul.
Disclaimer
This checklist is designed to help you navigate the complex and sometimes overwhelming decisions that arise when a loved one needs immediate care. Because every family situation is unique, no checklist can cover every situation completely.
Because each caregiving situation is unique, it is essential to seek guidance from an experienced elder law attorney to ensure that you have the proper legal documents and information for the best outcomes. With the right tools, resources, and support, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care while managing the practical and legal aspects of caregiving.
If you need help navigating the complexities of caregiving, contact us today for a consultation. We are here to guide you through this challenging time.
Let us help you through every step of the process.