When a senior member of the family is no longer able to fully take care of themselves, finding them alternative living arrangements is always a difficult process. There are so many options,
from assisted living to nursing homes, from skilled nursing to retirement villages. It can be a little overwhelming to try and figure out what level of care each one offers.
To help clarify, here’s a breakdown of the different types of senior housing facilities. Hopefully this will help you find a retirement facility that’s perfect for your loved one’s needs.
Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are a solution for seniors who have few medical issues and wish to retain an independent lifestyle. Most senior communities offer fully-equipped apartments of varying sizes for couples or individuals. Residents can take advantage of custom-designed meal packages at varying rates. Many independent living communities offer social events and outings for residents who wish to participate.
Assisted Living
Assisted care communities are ideal for seniors who can no longer live alone safely, but do not need a full-time level of care. Residents live in private apartments and meals and general housekeep are provided as part of the care package, as is assistance with medication and daily living arrangements. Members of staff are available 24/7. Most communities offer transportation services and social activities. Some also provide licensed nursing services.
Nursing Homes
This type of long-term care facility is for seniors who require a high level of assistance and medical care. Nursing homes provide round-the-clock licensed nursing services for all residents. These days, many nursing homes also offer temporary rehabilitative care for seniors who have had surgery or a recent stay in hospital. Residents have private rooms and share a dining area and social areas. Trips and social activities are available.
Memory Care
Memory care facilities are for seniors who suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Because of the nature of these conditions, care is needed 24/7. Memory care facilities offer structured activities to promote resident’s well-being and extend quality of life. Although some nursing homes do offer services to residents with impaired memories, a memory care facility is specifically designed for this type of resident and offers specialist care. These facilities are very secure, to prevent residents from wandering beyond the community. Within the secure areas, residents have access to gardens and walking areas.
Residential Care Homes
These are private homes where seniors live together and receive round-the-clock care from live-in caregivers. Assistance is always available for daily routines such as bathing and dressing. All meals are provided in a shared dining room. Nursing services are provided as needed. Daily activities are available.
Respite Care
Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers who are looking after an elderly relative. Many assisted living communities offer this type of short-term service. Typically residents will stay for one to four weeks. Respite also offers a good way for your loved one to become acquainted with assisted living. Often residents enjoy their stay and decide to move in full-time. Many memory care facilities also offer respite care.
In-Home Personal Care
In-home personal care allows seniors to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving assistance. Usually, assistance involves helping with daily living activities like bathing, getting dressed, preparing meals, shopping, paying bills, housekeeping, and generally being there to provide friendship and emotional support. The range of home health care varies considerably from a weekly visit to daily care programs, depending on each individual’s needs.
The monthly cost of these services and accommodations for seniors varies widely, between $1,500 – $3,500 independent living communities, $2,500 – $4,000 for assisted living accommodation, $4,000 – $8,000 for nursing homes, and $3,000 – $7,000 for memory care. You may need to visit several facilities before you find one that meets your loved one’s needs. Find out as much information as you can about each facility you visit. Remember to ask about meal plans, transportation, activities, medical assistance, as well as living arrangements. Take a full tour of the facility and make sure it is a safe environment for your loved one to live in. Meet with the staff and watch them as they work, notice how they interact with and talk to residents. Don’t be afraid to ask many questions, a good care home manager will always be willing to provide answers and address all your concerns.
Thomas Faulkner writes about eldercare, using his personal experience of caring for his mother and father, he writes supportive and informative articles that others can benefit from.
