When it Becomes Necessary to Seek Senior Care

As we age it becomes more likely that we will lose some portion of our independence.  Though realizing that we can no longer do everything for ourselves can be traumatic, it is a natural and inevitable fact of life.  If you find yourself in need of help to get through your day-to-day activities, don’t be ashamed – it’s likely that we will all find ourselves in that situation one day.

Luckily, there are many options available that can allow you to retain your independence while giving you the care and attention that you require.

Elder Care Options

Nursing Homes – The most well-known option for senior care is the skilled nursing home.  Nursing homes are usually required for fully dependent elderly persons in need of intensive day-to-day care.  Nursing homes provide meals, medications, bathing, and bathroom assistance for people who cannot do any of these things for themselves.

Assisted Living – Another option is assisted living centers.  Assisted living offers a more independent lifestyle while remaining in a clinical environment.   Individualized care-plans in an assisted living center encourage self-care, but keeps a skilled nursing staff on hand to offer most of the care available at a traditional nursing home.

Adult Daycare is an option for elders under the care of family.  These come-and-go environments allow a senior’s guardian to work out of the home while ensuring that their loved one receives the care they need.  Adult daycares vary greatly in the care they can provide, and it is important to speak with the staff about your needs before enrolling them in the program.

Independent Living Complexes, also known as retirement villages, are another great alternative.  Independent living will allow you to live in your own apartment, offering care from professionals on an as-needed basis.  Independent living lives up to its name by allowing as much personal independence as is safe and desired.

In-home Senior Care is a growing alternative to nursing homes and other elder care facilities.  The advantage of home care is that you choose a full-time or part-time nursing aide to come to your home and provide almost any level of care you require which can include:

• Grocery Shopping
• Cooking Meals
• Cleaning Your Home
• Medication Delivery & Organization
• Nutritional Needs
• Personal Care : Such as grooming and bathing

In home care does not require that you move to a facility.  It allows you to remain in your own home, in your own community, without the strict schedules and ridged policies of a senior care facility.  Another added bonus is this may even be a less costly alternative – it may even be covered in whole or in part by your current insurance plan.