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Joyce A. Benton
Marketing Coordinator
Evergreen Place,
Normal, IL
This article was submitted by
Joyce A.
Benton to Healthy
Cells.
As members of the Baby Boom generation age, the demand increases
for reliable information about senior living and healthcare options. There are
numerous choices for the care of an elderly loved one. Let’s take a look at some
of the options.
Staying at Home
Many older adults would say
that staying at home and living independently as long as possible is the most
desirable option. However, their caregivers – often their adult children – may
experience physical and emotional stress. Outside services such as home health
care, adult day care and respite care can help to alleviate stress and ensure
the best possible quality care. Respite care gives caregivers a much-needed
break so that they can take a vacation or attend to other matters. An outside
service will provide care in the home or the senior will stay in a nursing home,
assisted living facility or independent living facility for a short time. The
length of stay will depend on the need. Respite care is a good resource and a
matter of necessity for those who provide care around the clock.
Independent Living
Independent living is
also referred to as retirement living. Seniors live in an apartment where they
are free to come and go. They continue their involvement in community activities
and maintain their well being while on their own. Depending on the facility, one
to three meals are served daily in a main dining area. Housekeeping services are
provided at least once a week. The burden of maintaining a home is lifted. Each
independent living facility offers amenities varying in number and cost. Some
charge security deposits, community living fees or admission fees. If health
care needs arise or escalate, home health agencies can also be utilized.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living is for
seniors who want to maintain independence while also receiving some assistance
with activities of daily living. Residents have their own apartment and are free
to come and go as long as they are able. Most assisted living facilities provide
three meals each day, caregiver services, medication reminders and professional
nursing services. Assistance will also be available with bathing, dressing,
grooming, incontinence care and laundry service. The senior’s physician is
typically involved in the admission process. When looking for an assisted living
facility, make sure it is licensed with the state. This ensures that the proper
care is provided. Residents and/or their family members are responsible for
paying for assisted living. Long term care insurance policies may cover a
portion of the cost.
Rehab to Home
In the past, older people
would spend extended periods of time in a hospital for rehabilitation following
surgery, serious illness or injury. That is no longer the case; patients are
discharged from the hospital much sooner. Older adults benefit by staying
temporarily in a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation before they return
home, typically for no longer than three months. Skilled nursing facilities
employ registered nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), certified
aides and certified therapists who provide care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Residents have access to physical, occupational and speech therapy. They
re-learn motor skills and activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing
and cooking. The resident’s physician writes prescriptions as necessary and
works with the facility to develop a therapy plan. Often, rehab to home services
will be covered under Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance.
Long Term Care
Long term care in a nursing
home is appropriate for the senior who can no longer manage medical needs at
home. The resident’s physician may continue to supervise his or her care, or the
facility may employ a medical director who oversees medical needs. Some
facilities have specialty care units for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Licensed nursing staff members provide 24-hour care. Payment options include
private pay, Medicaid and long-term care insurance, depending on the
individual’s situation and the facility’s certification.
Making the best choice
Researching all the
available options is the best way to make an educated decision. Call and request
information from the facilities you are considering. Take a tour. Talk to people
in the community, ask social service agencies about the facilities you are
considering and use resources available online.
There are alternatives and options available for every
imaginable situation and there are many high-quality facilities and
compassionate, well qualified staff members to care for the growing number of
older adults in the US. If you have additional questions about senior
living opportunities and healthcare options, please contact Joyce Benton at
Evergreen Place: 309/451-9355.
Heritage Enterprises Inc.
115 W. Jefferson St., Suite 401
P.O. Box 3188 Bloomington IL 61702-3188
PH: (309) 828-4361 FAX: (309)
829-5477
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