If you have ever wondered what kind of senior care is best for an elderly family member, you may have found yourself a bit overwhelmed with the different options available. To help you along with this delicate process, our estate planning attorneys put together some options for you to review.
Independent Living
Independent living facilities or retirement communities offer a very minimal level of care for elderly individuals. Residents typically live in private apartments and have the option of purchasing customized meal packages and participating in planned social outings. This option is best if your loved one is essentially independent and has few health problems but does not wish to live alone.
In-Home Assistant
An in-home health aide is a good option if a senior individual prefers to remain at home, but needs help with some or all activities of daily living. Different levels of care are associated with this option: there are live-in home health aides to assist with all activities, as well as those who visit daily, several times a week, or once weekly to perform specific duties, depending on your elderly loved one’s needs.
Residential Care
Group homes, also called residential care homes, are living facilities where elderly individuals live in a private home with round-the-clock caretakers. Nursing services such as assistance with medications are typically provided as well. Such care is perfect for an elderly loved one who needs a significant amount of assistance but still wishes to maintain some independence.
Assisted Living
The next level of senior care is an assisted living facility. This option is perfect if your loved one cannot safely live alone due to health problems. In an assisted living facility, your senior loved one receives help with all activities of daily living, as well as assistance with medications and meals. Housekeeping services are also provided, and the facility is staffed 24 hours a day in case of emergencies.
Skilled Nursing Facilities
If your senior family member requires skilled care, a nursing home is the best option. Residents at skilled nursing facilities receive housekeeping services, assistance with meals, full-time medical care, and organized activities, depending on the resident’s mental and physical ability. Additionally, most staff members are skilled health professionals, such as RNs and physician’s assistants.
Memory Care
Caring for a family member with age-related dementia or Alzheimer’s disease is often challenging and difficult. If such care is needed, a memory care facility is the ideal solution. Residents at such facilities have structured activities and 24-hour support to ensure both their quality of life and their safety. Additionally, such facilities are secured to prevent residents from accidentally wandering away and sustaining harm.
Hospice Care
Hospice care is specifically designed for individuals who are terminally ill and expected to pass away within six to 12 months. Such care is administered at home or in a facility and focuses on palliative measures and patient comfort. Hospice care also centers on helping individuals make the most of their remaining time with their loved ones.
It is wise to check with a lawyer who is familiar with elder law, as he or she may be able to determine which facilities are covered by Medicare. You may even wish to speak to an estate planning attorney who can help you plan ahead for an aging family member.