Long-term Care Awareness Month – Nov. 1, 2026

Long-term Care Awareness Month
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Long-term Care Awareness Month is observed throughout November, shining a light on the essential needs of individuals requiring daily assistance. This observance emphasizes the importance of planning for future care, ensuring dignity, and providing compassionate support for seniors and those with chronic conditions. Join the conversation, educate yourself on care options, and advocate for better access to services.

Want to sponsor Long-term Care Awareness Month? Learn how

Expected Long-term Care Awareness Month Deals

As a ‘Cause’ observance, Long-term Care Awareness Month focuses less on commercial deals and more on awareness, education, and fundraising initiatives. Organizations like the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI) and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) typically host webinars, distribute educational materials, and promote discussions around long-term care planning. Insurance providers such as Genworth Financial and Northwestern Mutual often use the month to highlight their long-term care insurance products and planning resources. Healthcare providers and senior living communities like Brookdale Senior Living or Sunrise Senior Living may offer free informational sessions or open house events. Non-profits such as the Alzheimer’s Association also participate, emphasizing the link between cognitive decline and long-term care needs. Look for community events, online seminars, and opportunities to support advocacy groups throughout November.

Platform Guide for Long-term Care Awareness Month

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #LTCAwarenessMonth. Share personal stories or resources on long-term care planning and support.

LinkedIn

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #LongTermCare. Discuss policy, industry trends, and professional development in the care sector.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #LongTermCareAwareness. Share vital statistics, news, and calls to action related to long-term care.

Social Media Tips for Long-term Care Awareness Month

Individuals

Start conversations with family members about long-term care planning. Research local resources and support groups, and share information with friends and neighbors who might benefit.

Creators

Produce informative videos or blog posts explaining different types of long-term care, financial planning tips, or interview care professionals to demystify the process for your audience.

Brands

Host a free educational webinar on long-term care options, offer a consultation discount, or partner with a non-profit to raise awareness and funds for care services throughout the month.

Organizations & Brands for Long-term Care Awareness Month

  1. American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI)

    Founded in 1998, the AALTCI is a national trade organization dedicated to educating consumers and supporting insurance professionals in the long-term care insurance industry. They provide valuable data and resources.

  2. Genworth Financial

    A Fortune 500 insurance holding company, Genworth Financial has been a prominent provider of long-term care insurance for decades. They offer a range of products and educational materials to help families plan for future care costs.

  3. National Council on Aging (NCOA)

    Established in 1950, the NCOA is a respected national leader and trusted resource for older adults, caregivers, and professionals. They advocate for policies and programs that improve the health and economic security of seniors, including access to long-term care.

  4. Brookdale Senior Living

    Founded in 1978, Brookdale Senior Living is one of the largest operators of senior living communities in the United States. They offer various levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.

  5. Alzheimer's Association

    The Alzheimer's Association, founded in 1980, is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support, and research. They provide extensive resources for families navigating long-term care decisions related to dementia.

  6. Northwestern Mutual

    Founded in 1857, Northwestern Mutual is a leading financial services company that offers a variety of insurance and investment products, including long-term care insurance. They emphasize comprehensive financial planning for clients.

  7. AARP

    Founded in 1958, AARP is a powerful advocate for Americans 50 and older, providing information, resources, and discounts. They actively campaign for policies that support accessible and affordable long-term care options.

Long-term Care Awareness Month Hero

Elias S. Cohen

Elias S. Cohen was a pioneering advocate for the rights and needs of the elderly and individuals with disabilities, particularly in the realm of long-term care. As a lawyer and social worker, he dedicated his career to shaping public policy and improving services. His work in the 1960s and 70s was instrumental in shifting the focus of care from institutionalization to community-based and person-centered approaches, laying much of the groundwork for modern long-term care advocacy and policy.

History of Long-term Care Awareness Month

Since the 17th century, long-term care facilities have existed. Nursing institutions were introduced to the United States by English settlers to help not only the elderly but also orphans and mentally ill people. This tradition persisted until the 20th century when senior folks’ fundamental requirements were met. During the Great Depression in 1929, however, almshouses and long-term care institutions were overburdened as more men and women over the age of 60 needed assistance for both personal and healthcare requirements.

By 1965, nursing homes became a rising sector across the United States as more senior citizens opted to outsource long-term care for the late stages of their lives. Not only did they receive assistance for their daily activities, but they also received regular meals and medical attention.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the nursing care industry focused on upgrading its services to provide senior residents with the high-quality care they demand. The Nursing Home Act was enacted in 1987 to establish the long-term care services to which the elderly are entitled.

November was designated as National Long-Term Care Awareness Month by the American Association for Long-Term Care Assistance in 2001. Their purpose was to create awareness of nursing homes in the area and provide information to the elderly so that they might explore this choice once they reach the age of 65. Today, nursing homes have evolved into these modern facilities with WiFi, air-conditioning systems, entertainment areas, and coffee bars.

Long-term Care Awareness Month timeline

1700s
The Origin of Nursing Care in America

The English settlers introduce nursing care for the elderly, orphans, and mentally ill individuals in the U.S.

1929
Nursing Care During the Great Depression

The nursing care sector encounters a bump on the road as they get overwhelmed by the Great Depression.

1965
A Steady Sector

Nursing care for the elderly over the age of 65 becomes a solid industry across the United States.

2001
The First National Long-Term Care Awareness Month

The American Association for Long-Term Care Assistance declares the month of November as National Long-Term Care Awareness Month.

How Businesses Can Celebrate Long-term Care Awareness Month

Local businesses can play a crucial role in supporting Long-term Care Awareness Month by offering educational resources and fostering community dialogue. Healthcare providers, financial advisors, and elder law attorneys can host free informational sessions or workshops on long-term care planning, insurance options, and legal considerations. Senior living communities might open their doors for tours and Q&A sessions, while local pharmacies could distribute pamphlets on medication management for long-term conditions. Even non-healthcare businesses can participate by sponsoring local events or sharing reputable resources on their social media channels, demonstrating their commitment to community well-being.

Long-term Care Awareness Month FAQs

When is Long-term Care Awareness Month?

Long-term Care Awareness Month runs throughout November 2026. This annual observance dedicates the entire month to educating the public about the importance of planning for long-term care needs.

How many Americans will need long-term care?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 70% of people turning 65 today will need some form of long-term care in their lifetime. This highlights a significant and widespread need.

What is the average cost of long-term care?

The cost of long-term care varies widely by location and type of service, but it can be substantial. In 2026, a private room in a nursing home could easily exceed $100,000 per year, while assisted living facilities average around $50,000 annually.

What is the difference between long-term care and short-term care?

Long-term care provides ongoing support for individuals who need assistance with daily activities due to chronic illness, disability, or aging, typically for extended periods. Short-term care, in contrast, is temporary and often rehabilitative, designed to help individuals recover from an illness or injury and return to independent living.

How to Observe Long-term Care Awareness Month

  1. Spend a day with your grandparents

    Treasure the moments with your grandparents while they’re still alive. This month is the perfect time to visit and see how you can assist them in their daily routine. Your presence alone will surely make them smile.

  2. Volunteer at nursing homes

    Some nursing homes accept volunteers and interns to help the elderly. It’s a good act to show empathy and care to senior citizens who need assistance in their everyday life.

  3. Get long-term care insurance

    Look after yourself while you’re young. It’s always wise to get long-term care insurance today and reap its benefits once you reach the age of 65.

5 Interesting Facts About Long-Term Care

  1. The long-term care industry is expanding

    By 2050, it is expected that at least 27 million Americans would need long-term care.

  2. Alzheimer’s disease is a contributor

    The biggest contributor to the elderlies needing long-term care is Alzheimer’s disease.

  3. The life expectancy of the elderly

    The elderly have a 20-year life expectancy after they reach the age of 65.

  4. Few Americans have long-term care insurance

    Only 7.5 million Americans have long-term care insurance, which is only 2.2% of the entire U.S. population.

  5. Elderly abuse is rampant

    Approximately one out of 10 elderly in the U.S. has experienced elderly abuse.

Why Long-term Care Awareness Month is Important

  1. We love the elderly

    Compassion and empathy for the elderly should be the priority of National Long-Term Care Awareness. We should honor the long lives they lived and make their last stage in life as comfortable as possible.

  2. We love our grandparents

    Every elderly is somebody’s grandparent. Reach out and give a helping hand. You would want others to do the same thing for your grandfather or grandmother.

  3. They deserve quality care

    Elderly care is a right that men and women over 65 should exercise. Access to nursing care and long-term assistance should be readily available to them.

Long-term Care Awareness Month dates

Year Date Day
2026 November 1 Sunday
2027 November 1 Monday
2028 November 1 Wednesday
2029 November 1 Thursday
2030 November 1 Friday