The concept of growing old and becoming less independent is a difficult concept to get to grips with, but it is a reality for most people. Whether you’ve begun to think about your future or a loved one is getting to that age where they may need more elderly care assistance with their day-to-day activities, doing your research about senior living options is a great way to prepare yourself for whatever life throws your way.
Here is a short guide to elderly care and the different types of senior living options – from the community-oriented assisted living facilities offered by providers such as Clover Group to aging-in-place and memory care – currently available.
7 Important Things you Need to Know About Elderly Care
Aging in Place
Aging in place is a term that describes an older person living out the rest of their days at home or in the home of a loved one. This elderly care option is the choice many older adults prefer. Unfortunately, due to a variety of personal circumstances, it isn’t always possible. For instance, older adults who become much more dependent on others may find it difficult to age in place.
Even if they decide to live with family permanently, and their loved ones decide to assist with their daily activities, elderly care constantly can be difficult. An alternative to relying on family members is to enlist the help of an in-home caregiver. Or, depending on the state you’re living in, you can learn to become one. For example, knowing how to become a caregiver in Illinois would open the gate to many opportunities, not just in your household but in future employment.
Senior Living Options
Aging in place is not a viable option for many older adults. Luckily, there are plenty of senior living options that cater to everyone.
According to this professional dentist in Oakland, it’s also worth mentioning that when choosing a senior living facility, you should check what’s included in their packages. Some facilities may already include annual health checkups, while others may not.
Short Term Care vs Long Term Care
When considering senior living options, it is important to think about whether one requires short-term or long-term care. Short-term is more suited to older adults who are in recovery from an injury, surgery, or an illness. It can last between a few days to a few months. Respite care, or adult day care, is an example of a short-term care option.
Long-term care is suited for older people who need extra assistance in the long term. This type of care of suitable for those with a progressive condition. Long-term care options include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities.
Independent Living
Independent living is a long-term care option that suits older adults who still retain their independence and are able to perform everyday tasks by themselves. These facilities offer older adults access to healthcare professionals and caregivers should they require extra help. Independent living residents can take advantage of being part of a big social community while enjoying their own personal living space.
Studies show that social isolation can have a negative impact on the mental health of seniors. Being part of a large community will give older people a chance to socialize with others, therefore reducing their risk of loneliness.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is an option for seniors who require a little extra help with day-to-day activities. An assisted living community for seniors represents a critical component in the spectrum of senior care, offering a supportive environment for older adults who need some assistance with their daily activities. This type of living arrangement is ideal for seniors who do not require the intensive care of a nursing home but still need help with tasks that have become challenging due to aging.
In an assisted living community, residents can expect personalized care tailored to their individual needs. Belmont Village has several different assisted living locations within the United States. In these facilities, part of the broader assisted living community for seniors, older adults can receive care from skilled staff members who are trained to offer help with daily activities such as grocery shopping, taking medication, and personal care.
As with independent living facilities, seniors in these communities will have access to healthcare professionals to ensure they remain healthy and well and these communities often provide a rich social environment. They typically offer various activities and programs designed to keep residents engaged and connected, from group exercise classes and art workshops to social outings and educational seminars. This aspect of assisted living is vital, as it combats loneliness and promotes a sense of community among residents.
Additionally, many assisted living facilities are equipped with features and amenities that enhance the quality of life for seniors. These might include onsite dining services that offer nutritious meals, housekeeping services, and transportation arrangements for appointments and errands. Dedicated facilities will also have a number of procedures in place to prevent caregiver burnout, ensuring that your loved one always receives the high-quality care that they require.
Overall, assisted living serves as a bridge between independent living and more comprehensive medical care, offering seniors a balanced approach to later-life living. It provides the necessary assistance to make daily life easier, while still respecting the independence and dignity of each resident.
Memory Care
Memory care facilities are designed to accommodate older adults with memory-related conditions, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Seniors in memory care units will benefit from all the advantages of assisted living facilities, and they will also receive tailored care for their condition. These facilities place focus on the development and maintenance of a resident’s cognitive functions.
Skilled Nursing Facility
Skilled nursing facilities are for older adults who need full-time care and supervision. Adults in this type of facility usually have debilitating illnesses.
