Someone with a prolonged physical illness, disability, or a cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer's often needs long-term care. Personal care or custodial care helps with the activities of daily living (ADLs). These activities include bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, continence and transferring. Long-term care is usually not covered by health plans, disability insurance or Medicare. A long-term care policy helps with the expenses of this care.