LTC Bullet:
Wednesday March 1, 2000
Seattle--
The Center for Long-Term Care Financing receives frequent feedback on our Bullets which often includes insightful comments about long-term care in general. Here is an e-mail we received from Bill Schwieder of Virginia Beach, VA about helping people understand the concept of long-term care.
"As a LTCI [long-term care insurance] specialist, I spend a lot of time educating potential clients about many basic issues. 'What really is long-term care?' is one of the most basic questions. Most people read about the ADL's [activities of daily living], but still can't relate to the definitions fostered on us by legislators, doctors and insurance companies.
"One day, while preparing for one of my workshops, I had a revelation about a simple explanation that everyone could relate to. At the beginning of the workshop, I introduced myself and spoke of my family's experiences. Then I asked the question, 'Who else has had a personal experience with long-term care?' [Only a few] people raised a hand.
"'That was a trick question!', I said. 'Everyone here has had at least 4 years of long-term care.'
"After a brief pause for effect I said, 'Everyone here was born; someone bathed you, dressed you, fed you, changed your diapers, and carried you about. We call those things the activities of daily living. Here's the guarantee: If you live long enough, you'll need someone to help you do them again.'
"Then I asked, 'Now who understands the concept of long-term care?' Every hand rose up."
Bill Schwieder, Virginia Beach, VA 757-340-3768
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