Decisions that involve changing a senior's living arrangements are weighty. And the variety of options you may find have a positive and a negative aspect.
It's good to know that there are choices that can be made. It can also be distressing or confusing to be confronted with many choices. Getting familiar with all the options is the best antidote.
Retirement Communities are a good fit for healthy seniors who are self-sufficient.This type of arrangement includes meals and housekeeping. Some communities offer recreational activities like golf and tennis. Transportation is often included.
These communities usually require private payment options but it is possible to find some communities that are within the reach of seniors who have lower incomes.
Assisted Living is a self-explanatory designation for living arrangements offering seniors a mixture of help and independence to fit their individual needs. A senior, or couple, can live in their own apartment yet still have access to full-time staff if they need it, as well as assistance for housekeeping and meals. Medical treatment is available on the premises.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities can expand the services offered according to seniors' changing needs. A senior moves in while still self-sufficient, needing very little assistance or supervision.
If the senior eventually needs more in-depth care, the community will transfer him or her from their apartment to a nursing home affiliated with the community. A lifetime commitment makes this type of community unique.
Nursing Homes provide full-time care, handling meals and housekeeping, appropriate types of recreation and medical treatment. These facilities are licensed by the state. They are certified by Medicaid and Medicare, following precise standards, and subject to inspections to assure that they meet the standard.
Medicaid can make this type of living arrangement reachable for seniors with low incomes.
Low Income Housing is available in many forms. Low income seniors may be able to choose from independent living arrangements, to housing that also provides full-time care and treatment. Recreational activities and opportunities to socialize with other residents are part of the package.
There are many options to choose from, depending on the senior's personal needs and abilities. Check the newspapers for housing options in your local area and of course, use the internet for your search. Consider checking out any open house offerings so that you can look around and get a feel of a residence.
Do your research, check out the residences, and be sensitive to the reactions of the senior in question. It is, after all, his or her life that will change the most. You should be able to arrive at a new living arrangement that is appropriate for all concerned.