How Does Long-Term Care Work? A Guide for Families in Bridgewater & Hillsborough, NJ

​Understanding Long-Term Care: What You Need to Know

Is your family considering long-term care for a loved one? It’s a significant decision that requires careful thought and planning. Whether your loved one is aging, recovering from an illness, or dealing with chronic health conditions, understanding how long-term care works will help you make informed choices. This guide will cover everything you need to know about long-term care, including services, costs, and how to choose the right provider in Bridgewater and Hillsborough, NJ.

What Is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care (LTC) includes a range of services designed to support individuals who need assistance with daily activities over an extended period. These services help with:

• Personal Care: Bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating. ​
• Medical Services: Skilled nursing, medication management, and therapy.
• Memory Care: Specialized programs for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
• Rehabilitation: Physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
• Respite Care: Short-term stays for recovery or caregiver relief.​

Who Needs Long-Term Care?

Long-term care is commonly needed by:

• Seniors facing mobility challenges or chronic illnesses.
  
• Individuals recovering from surgeries, strokes, or hospital stays.
  
• People with progressive conditions such as Parkinson’s or dementia.

​Types of Long-Term Care Services

Assisted Living
For seniors who need help with daily activities but want to maintain independence, assisted living facilities provide:

• Private or shared apartments
• 24/7 caregiver support
• Meal services and housekeeping
• Social activities and outings

Memory Care
Memory care units cater to individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These programs offer:

• Secure environments to prevent wandering
• Cognitive therapy and structured routines
• Specially trained staff

Skilled Nursing Facilities
For those needing round-the-clock medical care, skilled nursing provides:

• Licensed nurses on-site 24/7
• Rehabilitation services
• Medication administration and monitoring

Respite Care
Short-term care solutions help families when they need temporary assistance. This option is ideal for:

• Recovery after surgery or hospitalization
• Caregiver vacations or emergencies

How to Pay for Long-Term Care

Long-term care can be expensive, but several options help cover costs:

1. Private Pay & Savings: Families often use personal savings or retirement funds to cover expenses.
2. Long-Term Care Insurance: LTC insurance helps offset the costs of assisted living or skilled nursing care.
3. Medicare & Medicaid:

• Medicare: Covers short-term skilled nursing after hospitalization but not long-term stays.
• Medicaid: Provides assistance for those with limited income who meet eligibility requirements.

4. Veterans Benefits: Veterans and their spouses may qualify for assistance through the VA.

How to Choose the Right Long-Term Care Facility

When selecting a long-term care provider, consider these key factors:

• Location & Accessibility – Is the facility close to family and medical providers? 
  
• Quality of Care – Research online reviews and state health inspection reports. 
  
• Staffing & Credentials – Are caregivers experienced and properly trained? 
  
• Services & Amenities – Does it provide the specific care your loved one needs? 
  
• Costs & Payment Options – Understand pricing structures and financial assistance options.

Why Choose Bridgeway Senior Healthcare?

At Bridgeway Senior Healthcare, we offer a Continuum of Care that adapts to your loved one’s changing needs, ensuring a smooth transition between different levels of support. With facilities in Bridgewater and Hillsborough, NJ, we provide:
​

• Assisted Living & Memory Care
  
• Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation
  
• Respite Care for Short-Term Stays
  
• Personalized Care Plans Tailored to Each Resident
  

We believe in providing compassionate, high-quality care in a comfortable, home-like setting. Our experienced professionals are here to support you and your family every step of the way.

Take the Next Step

If you’re exploring long-term care options for a loved one, we invite you to visit our Bridgewater and Hillsborough locations. Experience firsthand our Tradition of Excellence in senior care. Choosing long-term care is a big decision—but you don’t have to make it alone. Let us help you navigate this journey with confidence.

​📞 Call Us Today: (908) 274-1090