What Care Options Are Best for Your Loved One
Long-Term Care Options for Elderly
Choosing how to approach long-term care options for elderly family members can be overwhelming, but necessary. Fortunately, these days there are plenty of options available. Every situation is unique, so you’re going to need to consider factors such as how much care is required, what the budget allows, and personal preferences for both caretakers and those who need care.
This guide provides an overview of the most common care options for elderly folks. In order to make the transition as easy as possible for everyone involved, be sure to include your loved one in the conversation. After all, this is a big life change, and family support goes a long way.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are one of the best long-term care options for elderly people who require ongoing 24-hour care, such as those with physical or mental impairments that prevent them from being able to care for themselves. Experienced caretakers can assist with activities, meals, healthcare support, and basic living essentials.
Being around other residents can provide valuable social interactions for your loved one. Living in a nursing home may help them to feel less lonely, especially if you’re not able to be there 24/7. The downside is that nursing homes are one of the more expensive options available.
Staying at Home
Remaining at home can be one of the better long-term care options for elderly people who are still able to live somewhat independently, although assistance from friends, family members, and caretakers may be necessary. In addition to regular check-ins, you may need to modify the home to make it safer for independent living.
For example, you may need to install wheelchair ramps and bathtub railings. It’s also smart to provide monitoring systems, emergency response buttons, and other technology that helps to make their environment safer. Not only does this help to prevent avoidable accidents, but it gives them a feeling of safety, well-being, and independence.
Independent Living Facilities
Retirement communities, senior housing communities, and other independent living facilities are one of the best long-term care options for elderly folks who are still relatively independent, but not able to continue living at home or with family. These types of homes give seniors the opportunity to socialize and enjoy hobbies without having to worry about household chores, preparing meals, and other day-to-day tasks that can be difficult for them.
Independent living facilities are an ideal middle ground between living at home and living in a nursing home. They can also be a helpful transitionary point before moving to a nursing home, allowing them to enjoy their golden years surrounded by other seniors. While it’s not the cheapest of the long-term care options for the elderly, it’s usually possible to find a community that fits the average person’s budget.
Personal Care Homes
If your loved one requires more individual attention than independent living facilities can offer, personal care homes are an excellent choice. These homes usually only have a small group of residents, and there are on-site caretakers to provide assistance as needed. These homes don’t provide as much independence as senior communities, but they still provide opportunities to socialize and feel like part of a community.
If your loved one is not quite able to handle living independently, but they’re not ready to live in a nursing home yet, personal care homes are a great in-between point as far as long-term care options for elderly people go. The cost is generally comparable to independent living communities, and if you do some research, you may even be able to find something even cheaper.
Living with Family
If you have space and the ability to provide the support your loved one needs, allowing them to live in your home can be a wonderful choice. Living with family gives seniors a feeling of belonging and comfort. It allows them to enjoy their golden years surrounded by people who they love and who love them.
Of course, there are challenges associated with living with people with disabilities, so it’s very important that you acknowledge what will need to be done in advance. Living with family is one of the most ideal long-term care options for elderly people, but being moved to a home if things don’t work out can be very emotionally draining. Be sure to discuss the transition with the entire household so you can create a game plan that works for everyone involved.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing care retirement communities are kind of a mix of retirement communities, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. They’re generally ideal for older seniors who want to remain in one location for the rest of their lives. They’re also one of the best long-term care options for elderly couples who want to continue living together, even if one requires more care than the other.
These communities typically have various degrees of care available. Some seniors may be able to live virtually independently, while others may require ongoing assistance. The great thing about these communities is that as your loved one continues to age, the staff and accommodations are able to evolve to continue meeting their needs. The cost of living in one of these communities is usually fairly high, but you may be able to find affordable options if you do some research.
Be Open and Honest
Communication is the key to finding the best long-term care options for elderly loved ones. Yes, it can be a difficult conversation to have, but it’s absolutely necessary. In the long run, your loved one is going to appreciate that you have their best interest in mind.
For more information on ways to improve your loved one’s quality of life, call us at (203) 235-8324 or contact us online. Provide the senior citizen in your life with the support they need with innovative products from Assisted Living Technologies.