The CalPERS board approved a 22 percent increase in long-term care insurance for senior citizens enrolled in the program.  CalPERS said the rate hike is necessary because of heavy investment losses and the disproportionate number of people drawing benefits compared to those paying in.  About 160,000 members of CalPERS and their relatives statewide are enrolled in the plan, which offers options covering assisted living, nursing home care, home care and other services.  Unlike standard health care benefits offered by CalPERS, premiums for long-term care insurance are paid entirely by individual members and not by the state or local government entities that employed them.

All California public employees between the age of 18 and 79, their spouses, their parents, their parents-in-law and their adult siblings are eligible to sign up for coverage.  The finances of the long-term care insurance fund are also separate from the rest of CalPERS’ $200 billion investment portfolio.

The monthly premium for lifetime long-term care coverage has been increased from $180 to $219.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the care an elderly loved one is receiving in a nursing home or other type elder care facility, call Berman & Riedel, LLP today at (858) 350-8855.  Our staff will happily provide you and your family with an initial free consultation to discuss with you your rights and what monetary damages you may be entitled to under California and federal law.  To learn more about the firm’s elder abuse and neglect law practice, visit Berman & Riedel, LLP’s main website at www.preventelderabuse.com.