It was a promise all five children made to our mother—that we would never put her in a nursing home. All four of her sisters had lived into their late 90's and early 100's, so the chances were high that keeping our promise could have us caring for Mom for longer than any of us could imagine. My brother, who's a doctor, had the foresight to suggest that we look into options for paying for her care, "just in case" she ever needed it. After evaluating the four resources for paying for long-term care, we all decided that LTC insurance would be the best solution. All 5 children shared in the cost of the premium.

Mom was diagnosed with early Alzheimer's at 85 years old. Our normally fit and healthy mother was now frail and confused. Three of us are now taking turns having her live with is for 3-4 months at a time. If we hadn't planned ahead for her care, we would never be able to afford the supplemental assistance needed to care for her. With the option we chose, Mom is able to receive care in an adult day care center for up to 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. On weekends, we are able to hire aides to provide the respite we need from being "on duty" the full 24 hours a day.

As her disease progresses, we know that the emotional and physical demands on us and our families will be tremendous. But by planning ahead, we feel that we will have the resources we need to keep our promise.

—Michelle LaMarche