Your parent or elderly relative has reached the point where they can no longer live on their own, and now you must find them a solution. The idea of finding senior housing or care home for your loved one can seem overwhelming at first, but having a better understanding of all the available options can definitely make the process much easier and less stressful. Read on to learn about the types of assisted living and care home options for seniors.
Senior Independent Living
Independent living communities (also referred to as retirement communities) are the ideal option for healthy and active seniors who want to live independently amongst other seniors who they can join in educational, cultural and other social activities for entertainment. Many retirement communities feature extensive amenities such as hiking trails, swimming pools, golf courses, fitness clubs, monthly activities, and more.
A Senior Independent Living Community (Retirement Community) may be the right option if:
• The senior does not require medical assistance
• The senior prefers a low-maintenance home and/or lifestyle
Assisted Living
An assisted living facility is suitable for seniors who want to live independently but need help with day-to-day activities. Among assisted living communities there is a wide variation in the level of care that may be provided, however most assisted living facilities generally offer meals, housekeeping, social activities, and transportation. However, seniors in this type of housing should not have any serious medical conditions as most do not offer 24-hour supervision, and they are not required to have nurses and/or doctors on site at all times.
Assisted Living may be the right senior care home option if:
• The senior wants to maintain independence
• The senior is still active and wants to participate in social activities
• The senior needs help with activities of daily living
• The senior does not require 24-hour supervision
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide medical care for seniors with serious medical conditions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from a registered nurse, licensed vocational nurse and/or certified nursing aide. Residents typically share a room, are served meals in a central dining area, and have the opportunity to be involved in social activities.
A Nursing Home may be the right option if:
• The senior has a serious medical condition that requires around-the-clock nurse assistance
• The senior experiences mobility issues
Alzheimer's Care
Alzheimer's care facilities specialize in the dedicated treatment and care of people with Alzheimer's and dementia. Residents generally live in semi-private apartments and have structured activities with staff members. Similar to an assisted living community, an Alzheimer's care facility will also provide personal services like help with eating, toileting, bathing, grooming, dressing, etc. Additionally, most Alzheimer's care facilities feature 24-hour support, a higher level of security to protect wanderers, and color-coded and/or circular layouts to prevent confusion.
Alzheimer's Care may be the right option if:
• The senior requires specialized care for Alzheimer's disease or dementia
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing care retirement communities are senior care facilities that offer flexible accommodations intended to meet the changing needs of seniors. They provide appropriate levels of senior care support for independent living, assisted living, or nursing care all in one facility so that seniors can move there and never worry about moving again.
A Continuing Care Retirement Community may be the right option if:
• The senior would like to select from a wide range of services and amenities
• The senior prefers privacy, but may require assistance later on
It's a big change for both you and your aging loved one to move to an assisted living or senior care home, but by gathering information prior to the need arising, you will have more time to fully explore all the possibilities, making the transition much easier.
No comments:
Post a Comment