Are you considering senior care options for a loved one? If so, you know that you have an important decision ahead of you — and so does your parent or other relative. The good news is that elder care is a booming industry in the United States, so there are plenty of options to choose.
Making the decision to move into an assisted living home can be complicated for many people, but it doesn’t have to be that way. If you think that a relative of yours may be better suited to live in a senior care facility, here are some things you can mention as the two of you are considering senior care options.
1. Why Enter Senior Living?: Many older adults may be reluctant to give up aging in place in their own homes. However, many homes are ill-equipped in dealing with the day-to-day challenges of many seniors. Private homes don’t usually contain safety equipment such as handles or seating in showers, wheelchair ramps on porches, or other conveniences, and making these upgrades yourself can cost thousands of dollars. Senior living communities, however, come with these amenities and others built in, so your loved ones will be safe from falls and other hazards. This is especially important if your relative has already been injured at home due to mobility problems. Senior homes also have staff on-hand to assist residents with daily activities in order to limit injuries.
2. Types of Senior Communities: Most often, you will find two main types of senior communities: for-profit and non-profit homes. For-profit communities often feature independent senior housing and may have luxury amenities. However, they can also provide care for a variety of conditions and may even cater to the 85 and older crowd (who currently make up roughly half of the one million seniors in assisted living today). Non-profit homes tend to be more traditional group homes and are often run by churches and religious organizations. However, even some of these homes today are becoming more independent and offer more features than before. When it comes down to making this decision, be sure to consider cost, care, and community perks in each home you and your relative visit.
3. Benefits of Senior Care: In the long-term, senior care can be more beneficial than aging in place for many seniors. Many of these homes provide specific types of care that can address chronic conditions, such as memory care and treatments for dementia. Living in a senior community also gives senior citizens the chance to socialize. This is especially beneficial for those who live alone at home. Seniors may be more prone to depression if they live on their own, so senior homes can provide opportunities to stay active with various activities, group outings, and social events.
Are you considering senior care options in your area? What are you looking for? Let us know about your experience in the comments section. Helpful links.