Home Care Or Care Homes? Weighing Your Options For The Future
Elderly care choices have increased over the last few decades from a few options
to a myriad of alternative senior services for independent aging adults. In fact, the percentage of seniors living in a nursing home has consistently declined over the last few years due to an increase in new home care services and improved medical treatments and health and lifestyle choices.
Today there are many elderly care services and senior services options available for individuals and couples making decisions about where to live and how to best care for themselves as they age. Some of the most common elderly care options include:
Family care from close family members. According to the report, Caregiving in the United States, from the National Alliance for Caregiving and the AARP published in 2009, 29% of the U.S. population provides an average of 20 hours per week caring for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend. Family caregivers who live near loved ones are able to closely monitor their health and care, but are also at risk of becoming overwhelmed by growing care needs and responsibilities.
Home care services from a professional elderly care program. The number of home care services available from professional home care providers is growing across the country. Home care services provide a professional caregiver to help seniors with daily tasks such as meal preparation, transportation, light housekeeping, and medication management. They also provide companionship, social and mental stimulation and can offer around-the-clock care.
Part-time home care from a nurse. Some home care services offer elder care from a licensed nurse. This type of home care service is ideal for seniors who may require skilled care assistance while recovering from an injury, illness or surgery, or other medical treatment for chronic conditions.
Active adult community. Active adult communities across the nation are generally collections of homes, condominiums, or apartments for residents 55 years and older. In addition to community activities and amenities such as pools, golf courses, health clubs, gardens, parks, and more, senior services are also often available for residents. Some communities provide limited health care assistance through staff, but most focus on social and household services. However, seniors can hire an outside home care service to help with personal care needs and activities of daily living as needed.
Retirement homes. For individuals looking for an apartment-like setting that allows them to enjoy time with others and benefit from senior services such as meal preparation and housekeeping, a retirement home is an option. Most offer private living quarters and the option for private meals, but also provide social opportunities such as restaurant-style dining, game nights, outings and more.
Nursing Homes. For individuals who require around-the-clock skilled care for medical conditions and need to be monitored by a nurse or doctor, consider a nursing home, but limits are often placed on an individual's independence and privacy.
When considering elderly care options, weigh your needs and desires honestly. Thanks to the growing number of options, it is easy to find a home and lifestyle that meets your health, social and care needs, while allowing you to continue living a full, happy and independent life.
by: Kara Knapp
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