Medicare, Medicaid, or Private Insurance? Making Long-Term Care More Affordable 10 People to Thank
Known for its slow, gentle, and simple movements, tai chi is exploding in popularity among adults over 65. Studies have shown significant benefits for all ages, but its accessibility and low impact have made it the martial art of choice among people of retirement age. As a form of exercise, it positively impacts participants’ physical and mental health. Unlike many other martial arts, tai chi does not usually involve physical fighting or attempting to defeat an opponent. It is sometimes referred to as an “internal” martial art or “meditation in motion” due to its focus on developing mental and spiritual strength alongside physical strength. It has much in common with yoga but involves fluid movement instead of static poses. Tai chi draws heavily upon the Chinese philosophy of Taoism, most commonly understood through the yin and yang. Taoism promotes balancing our more feminine and masculine features (yin and yang) to become peaceful and balanced people. Tai chi aims to help restore that balance through relaxation, exercise, and breathing. You don’t have to accept the philosophical tenets of Taoism to gain benefits from practicing tai chi. Through its use of soft, deliberate movements, it helps many people restore their physical stability and prevent falls in their golden years. And unlike many high-intensity exercises that encourage participants to work through pain to meet goals, tai chi discourages pushing oneself to the limit and encourages people to modify movements to meet their capabilities. A MEDITATION ON MOVEMENT THE BENEFITS OF TAI CHI FOR SENIORS
Many of us will have to consider the
possibility of needing long-term care as we grow older. Some of us will move to nursing homes while others receive rehab care at an assisted
living facility. The truth is that these long-term care facilities are unbelievably expensive. It takes proper planning to ensure you can afford to receive care from one, and you should start preparing well before you reach an age when it’s necessary.
On average, nursing homes and assisted living facilities can cost
anywhere from $5,000 to $9,000 a month. Without the proper insurance or a
foolproof plan, you could eat through your life savings before you know it, preventing you from leaving money to your family in your estate plan. Thankfully, you can consider a few options when planning for long-term care. If you need long-term care, private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid can help pay for the costs. Private insurance can be expensive, and not everyone can afford it in the later years of their lives. Medicare could be beneficial, but there’s a catch many people don’t realize. Medicare only pays for the first 100 days you’re in a nursing home, so when day 101 hits, someone else needs to pay the bill. You could be out of luck if you don’t have the funds to cover the cost. Thankfully, Medicaid could be an option that will help you live comfortably without breaking the bank. Medicaid is only available to those 65 years of age or older who qualify. A financial threshold determines if you are eligible for Medicaid or not. You should look for an alternative option if you make too much per month. If you’re unsure if you qualify for Medicaid or are curious about your other options, we’re available to help. Give us a call, and we’ll provide a free needs assessment to see if you qualify for a Medicaid asset protection trust. A little planning goes a long way. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And where there’s no will, there’s probate. We’re available to help with any of your estate planning needs.
The health benefits of tai chi are impressive. Medical research indicates that tai chi can reduce a person’s fall risk by up to 50%. A great deal of evidence also suggests that tai chi can help with arthritis and
back pain. Like other exercises, tai chi helps promote weight loss and better sleep. Participants also show improved cardiovascular health, and people with heart failure, breast cancer, and other conditions see increased overall wellness. Some studies even show that tai chi can improve memory!
Those who want to try tai chi for themselves will find many online courses. Watching the videos
will help you get a better feel for the martial art, but it’s best to seek a professional before you begin practicing. Look for classes in your area (many senior centers offer them). You’ll receive support, coaching, and company while doing your health a favor.
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