Forbes Magazine recently reported that 10,000 Baby Boomers are turning 65 every day. These citizens represent one of the largest generations in history, and as they age, some need more care than families can provide. However, even the most loving adult children cannot handle issues associated with diseases like Alzheimer’s. If you find yourself in this situation, there may be services that allow your family member to remain at home and get assistance. If the condition is more serious, the best option may be expert at-home care or moving your relative to a high-quality senior facility. Dozens of such homes have sprung up as a result of the increased demand. Many are excellent, but it is essential to research each one to find the best fit. Finding the best in home care and providers is a must, check out careforfamily.com.au for some great tips and finding providers you can trust.
1) Consider Alternatives to Residential Care
Most of the seniors who move into homes like Brandywine Senior Living need some level of special care. However, if the elderly are healthy and active, other options allow the elderly to maintain their current lifestyles and delay or eliminate the need to move. For example, a contractor can modify your home to create an apartment or create space for a bedroom. If a healthy older person lives alone, many problems can be solved by using paid food, transportation, or cleaning services. Some families install “granny pods,” or free-standing, handicapped-accessible cottages to properties.
If you have space and can afford it, at-home nursing may be an option for a senior who needs medical care. The elderly often do better in familiar surroundings, but you should still get quotes to suit you and your family members needs. They have more control over their lives and can see friends when they want. Many forms lasting bonds with caregivers. If parents or grandparents are comfortable where they are, in-home nursing allows them to safely age in place. A geriatric care manager could also help locate resources and determine when the elderly need residential care.
2) Decide on the Type of Residential Care Seniors Need
The first step in arranging senior care is determining specific needs. When remaining at home is not an option, an established, licensed, and reputable long-term care centers can solve a lot of problems. Before deciding on a residential care center, it is essential to evaluate a senior’s needs.
· An independent living facility is an excellent choice for people who can care for themselves but need some help. Communities provide apartments with safety features. Professionals take care of the cooking and often laundry.
· Active elderly parents who need help with things like constant changing of incontinence absorbent pads, dressing and other personal care fit well into assisted living facilities. Seniors are assigned caregivers who offer services like medication reminders and routine check-ins as well as health care. Communities have specially equipped apartment homes to accommodate residents’ needs.
· A skilled nursing facility is the best option for an aged parent or grandparent with serious health issues. Homes usually offer memory care units and staff trained to assist dementia or Alzheimer’s patients. Staff members provide 24/7 care, and medical professionals routinely assess patients’ needs.
3) Spend Time Researching Costs and Payment Options
It is essential to research and compare the cost of elderly care options because they can vary widely. According to Kiplinger financial experts, senior care facilities charges between $3,600 and $10,000 a month, depending on arrangements. Independent living is the least expensive, and skilled nursing services cost the most. At-home services cost approximately $17 per hour. If a relative has little or no savings and you cannot afford to make up the difference, options may be minimal. Insurance and Medicare do not pay for extended care nursing, but a Veteran may have coverage. Medicaid could cover the costs, but seniors need to deplete most of their assets to qualify.
4) Visit Facilities in Person
Once you have settled on a facility, it is crucial to meet personnel in person and then tour the premises. The first thing to look for is safety. Sites like www.medicare.gov provide guidelines. Harvard Medical School recommends contacting your state licensing board to check each facility’s record for quality. It is easy to find contact information for agencies on the Internet.
During a visit, pay attention to cleanliness and any unpleasant odors that might signal carelessness. Speak to residents and notice whether they are active. Talk to those who are inactive, to get a feel for their attitude and overall health. Say hello to employees and note their responses. Do they smile? Are they helpful? Notice whether nurses are at their stations, or socializing with other personnel?
Look for homey details like plants, fish tanks, birds and gardens. A high-quality home looks more like a residence than a hospital. There should also be accessible common areas where residents gather. Take note of any activities that are happening during your visit. These are signs of a vibrant environment where seniors can thrive.
5) Ask the Right Questions
It is important to ask lots of questions as you visit each facility. It is smart to get answers sooner rather than later. You will especially want answers to the following:
· Can this business meet all of my family member’s needs? Explain every detail that concerns you and be sure you get satisfactory answers.
· What are the necessary costs? Are there additional expenses that can add up? Will there be charges if a senior needs extra help with incontinence or medications?
· Does the home charge a one-time fee when residents move in and, if so, will it be refunded if they choose to leave?
· What activities are available, and do they include religious services?
6) Evaluate the Food Service
Most reputable long-term care facilities provide three nutritious meals a day, plus snacks. However, not all of them can accommodate every resident’s dietary needs. Before committing to a residence, find out if they can accommodate special diets. Ask whether they will provide residents’ favorite dishes. Inspect food service areas for cleanliness. Notice whether there are cheerful dining rooms where residents can mingle with friends.
Senior citizens can often age in place when adult children arrange food, transportation, cleaning, or home nursing services. When seniors need more help, there are long-term care homes that offer solutions. However, it is essential to investigate each facility before choosing one.
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