It may surprise you to know that long-term care is not just provided for the frail elderly in nursing homes.  The chart below illustrates that 40% of those who are currently receiving long-term care are between the ages of 18 and 64!  This is due to lifestyle accidents, such as skiing accidents or automobile crashes (head injuries are common).  Many people who receive long-term care stay at home or take advantage of community based services. 

57% Elderly

40% Working Age Adults

3% Children

(Source US General Accounting Office, Long Term Care Issues and Future Directions, April 1995