Independent or Retirement Communities
There are retirement communities that provide an environment for people who no longer want the responsibility of maintaining a personal residence but are fully capable of living an independent lifestyle. The advantage of a retirement community, in addition to increased security and relief from homestead obligations, is the enhanced social atmosphere created when individuals of the same age and similar interests come together. Most retirement communities provide a variety of social, cultural, and recreational activities as well as meal preparation, convenience shopping and transportation services. Each community is different and you may select from those offering apartments, condominiums, or smaller one-level homes designed with seniors in mind. You may own or rent your living space.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living communities offer older adults a chance to retain as much of their independence as possible in a supervised, residential setting and is often a step between having parents living alone and moving them to a nursing home. These communities provide opportunities for socialization through activities and special events. Communities vary in size from the cozy familiarity of a single-family home to the more extensive apartment-style environment to suit one’s individual needs. A good match between a community and a resident’s needs depends as much on the philosophy and services of the assisted living community as it does with the quality of care. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) Assisted Living communities actually help to maintain one’s independence longer by providing:
- Three nutritious meals and two snacks daily
- Health care management and monitoring of medications
- Help with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Recreational activities
- Security
- Transportation
Personal Care Homes
Personal care homes are individually owned homes that offer room and board in a more home-like and personal environment. The ranges of services vary, but typically offer assistance with activities of everyday living, such as bathing and dressing. Amenities and services vary greatly between homes, but they all have to follow the same state rules and regulations as the assisted living communities.
Alzheimer’s and Memory Care
Some communities provide memory care in specialized, secured units or designated areas. These communities offer secured grounds, specially-trained staff, special architectural design, and therapeutic activities for the residents. Within these neighborhoods you will find many features that will allow residents to freely walk about and many times it allows for outdoor walks within the secure environment. There are also personal care homes and communities that specialize only in the care of dementia or memory-impaired residents.
Skilled Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide 24-hour nursing care and supervision for the frail elderly when they can no longer remain in their home or in an assisted living community because of requiring a higher level of care, such as skilled nursing care. Many nursing homes also provide short-term rehabilitative stays for those recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery. Residents typically share a room and are served meals in a dining room, unless they are too ill to participate. Activities are also available for the residents.
Continuing Care (CCRC)
This is an option that you might want to consider. This continuing level of care truly allows one to Age in Place. As your needs increase, so does your care. For example, you might enter the community strictly on the independent level, knowing that as you begin to need assistance with grooming or medications, that help is available. As your needs progress, the services (e.g. transportation, or even skilled nursing care, etc.) increase. These are generally long-term agreements with lifelong housing and health care. Each community is different as to the price and available features.
Respite Care
Respite care provides a temporary break for caregivers by allowing a resident to have a short-term stay in a community that can meet their needs. This allows caregivers time off for vacation, or even just a rest, with peace of mind. In some cases the person will decide to stay, and make it their new home. Respite is a good way to get to know a community before one decides to move in. Respite programs are available for assisted living and Alzheimer’s residents.
Adult Day Care
Adult daycare provides a unique and ideal situation for those who are not prepared to change their current residence but need daily supervision, activities and social interaction. They are typically 8 hours a day, and include a meal and a snack, and lots of activities to stimulate them, and improve their quality of life. This can also give the caregiver a break and some time off. Adult daycare is available at some assisted living communities as well as churches and adult daycare centers.
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