Frequently Asked Questions About Willow Valley Lifecare

We are often asked to describe the difference between Lifecare at Willow Valley and long-term care insurance. Here are some of the “frequently asked questions” that you might have too. We look forward to speaking with you about how Lifecare will benefit your life. 

Where do I receive long-term care, should I ever need it?

With Willow Valley Lifecare you would stay right here in the community, close to your family and friends.

With long-term care insurance it would vary according to where you live, the specific kind of care you would need, as well as the availability of that care.

How can I ensure that the coverage I purchase now will cover costs in the future?

The investment strategy and prudent financial management we’ve practiced here at Willow Valley has succeeded in doing just that for more than 25 years! The story could be different with long-term care insurance as you’d likely need to add an “inflation rider” to your policy which could substantially increase your premiums.

Is my cost fixed for long-term care coverage?

At Willow Valley it is. Our Lifecare Residents do not pay a higher fee if and when long-term care is needed. The beauty of Lifecare is the predictability of cost. Long-term care insurance doesn’t always offer that predictability. Many insurers initially offer a fixed cost which they cannot individually increase, but they can raise premiums on all policies if the claims exceed expectations. And there is no way to predict claims.

When does my coverage begin?

At Willow Valley, Lifecare is an entire system of activities, facilities, and staff working together to support healthy and independent Residents. Lifecare begins the day you move in! Should you need Personal Care, Skilled Nursing, or Memory Support, it begins as soon as it is needed with no paperwork, approvals, or delays. Long-term care insurance, on the other hand, typically has benefits starting in 30 to 90 days after a health event, however in some instances, will extend that period even further.

What do I do if I need long-term care?

Willow Valley’s continuum of care is seamless. Regardless of a short- or long-term stay, Resident Services will coordinate all aspects so you’ll have no searches, no paperwork, and no stress. Willow Valley Lifecare is comprehensive long-term care. This is in stark contrast to those who have long-term care insurance, who would need to check eligibility for benefits, review elimination periods and costs of care, seek out a provider who has availability, submit paperwork, make arrangements for home maintenance, and coordinate logistics such as transportation.

What are the other benefits of Lifecare versus long-term care insurance?

The goal of Lifecare is to support the best functionality as you age. You live in a beautiful and amenity-rich retirement community and grow to know other Residents and Staff – any adjustments are fully supported and we’re fully accountable!

Long-term care insurance is a premium paid to a company. You don’t become part of a community of investors in the same product. There is no predictability to future costs or guarantee of a good quality placement for care. You will need to make decisions, fill out forms, and make adjustments at a time when you feel least able to do so.