It's my pleasure to host this guest post. The topic interests me particularly because recently, we had future planning discussions and tours of local senior care homes with my Mom. In the end, we decided to continue supporting Mom in her independent retirement community, even though her needs are increasing. For the time being, she chooses to pay privately to supplement her care. Having these discussions and knowing what's out there in the way of options though, was a really helpful exercise for our whole family.
Senior Living
Considerations
As any person ages, their needs and
physical abilities may change. For this reason, it is prudent to consider some
alternative living situations to accommodate lifestyle, disabilities, and
personal preferences. From living in a like-minded senior community to staying
in the family home, there are some things to consider when helping your loved
one make these tough decisions.
Caregivers should consider the
following when trying to help a senior facing a possible move:
The benefits of living in a senior community.
A senior
community allows residents to be with individuals who are at the same stage of
life, which could foster engagement and promote socialization. There's a
feeling of community, security and safety found in these senior living residences that
other apartments, condos, or subdivisions may not provide. Even seniors that
are reluctant to move may take some comfort in a senior living community. Some
other perks of taking up residence in a senior community include the following:
-
Avoiding isolation with close
neighbors and supports.
-
Staying active and engaged with
like-minded individuals.
-
Living with more ease and simplicity
in a downsized situation.
Considerations for living in an independent living home.
When asked, many seniors remain firm on the fact that they want
to live independently in their own home. Downsizing to a more manageable sized
residence could be a practical way to make this work, or some simple strategies
could make the family dwelling safer and more secure for those that choose to
remain there.
Consider the
following questions when helping a senior make decisions regarding their
current home:
-
Where do they live? Is the location
of the current home practical and is the floorplan design flexible for changing mobility needs? Be sure that the senior has access to the
services, providers, and places that they need. Also, be sure to make an
inventory of the current home to determine what, if any, work needs to be done
or modifications that should be made to make the home safe for those living
there.
-
What are the accommodations? Does
the home have the things the senior will need? From beds to ramps, be sure that
the home suits the seniors need, while providing them full-access to the
bathroom, mailbox, kitchen, or other areas of the home.
-
Are there any activities or amenities?
What types of services are nearby? Make sure that the senior lives in proximity
to markets, recreation facilities, providers, and caregivers. For instance, be certain that your
senior loved one will have easy access to public transportation if they do not drive.
Some other things to think about.
Another option is an assisted-living facility that provides on site nursing care for residents who are recuperating from an injury or who have physical limitations. These accommodations might be short-term housing during recovery, or longer-term living situations for
seniors who need this level of care.
Many innovative care communities are adopting a step-down approach which incorporates independent
living options with assisted and skilled-nursing models. These rooms or apartments are on
the same property, so an individual who needs a bit more help is able to get
it without leaving his familiar community. Many older individuals worry that
an extended stay in a nursing home or hospital may result in them losing their
home. This step-down model eliminates this concern and ensures that residents
will be able to live on the premise for the rest of their lives, which brings a
sense of security in the fact that they won’t ever need to move again.
Talk with your
loved one about their wishes and where they want to spend their golden years.
From independent living to a senior community, options abound based on the
resident’s age, physical needs, and personal preferences. Clarify what the
senior sees as the most pragmatic option and listen when they verbalize
concerns. Tours of various dwellings and facilities may help to put some minds
at ease during this process.
Author Bio:
Daniel Lofaso is the Community
Outreach Manager for Lourdes Noreen Mckeen, a retirement and independent living facility
in West Palm Beach, FL.
1 comment:
For more senior living considerations, visit Northfield Senior Center.
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