Definition of Long Term Care

Long-term care is defined as needing either assistance or supervision from someone when you are unable to care for yourself as a result of a disabling chronic illness, physical injury, cognitive or mental impairment, or just due to old age and frailty. This type of care is considered custodial care, or non-skilled care. It is NOT acute or rehabilitative care, which is known as skilled care.

When you need long-term care you usually need help with your activities of daily living. These are items such as bathing, dressing, toileting, continence, eating, and transferring. Or, you may be able to do all of your activities of daily living but still need care due to a cognitive impairment (memory loss, dementia, etc.). You may be able to dress yourself, but you may not remember to take your medications.