As we grow older, we start requiring help with certain things that we might have handled easily by ourselves in the past. While many people want to live as independently as possible for their whole lives, that is not always feasible, and this is why there are options and services designed around assisting seniors. The services and options you go with will depend on your particular situation. This article will discuss these services and options, so you are better informed in case you need help at any time.
Care at Home
These are services that you get when you decide to age in place at home. You might not be open to moving out of the house due to its familiarity and the bonds you have formed with your neighbors and community. Those who provide these services will visit your home to help you with whatever you need.
Personal care services are the first option you can consider. These services are provided by a non-medical professional who helps with daily activities. Personal care attendants provide care to seniors who want to live safely at home but do not need medical services or assistance.
Homemakers are closely related to personal care attendants, but with one key difference: homemakers take care of things that enhance quality of life but are not the main component of independent living. Such tasks include housekeeping, caring for pets, shopping, finance management, and the like.
Home Health Services
These are services provided by a trained home care aide who visits the home regularly to monitor the home and your loved one as well as provide basic medical care. Home health services are suited for seniors who need help with daily activities as well as basic health care.
Some of the services they provide include vital sign monitoring, mobility assistance, mental and physical health monitoring, and medication assistance. Because they provide some level of medical care, they have to meet training requirements set by different states. Some states might also require that they have different qualifications and certifications.
Independent and Assisted Living Options
Independent and assisted living are very similar, but they have some key differences that you should be aware of. Their main similarity when comparing independent living vs assisted living is that they are both designed for seniors who need assistance with daily activities. The level and type of assistance provided depend on whether a loved one is living in an independent living community or assisted living facility.
With independent living options, seniors get affordable housing and are designed for seniors who do not require too much assistance. Seniors who live in these communities, which are also known as senior apartments or retirement communities, can manage things like their medication and setting appointments.
Independent living communities do not typically provide nursing care services, but they do offer services like arranging and facilitating outings, laundry, housekeeping, and exercise classes. Independent living facilities are a great option for seniors who are at risk of isolation and therefore loneliness and depression.
Assisted living facilities, on the other hand, are designed for seniors and they provide comprehensive care that can include personal services like helping with personal tasks like maintaining hygiene and showering, preparing food, dressing, and managing medication.
The role of caregivers is very evident in assisted living facilities, as are social interactions and communal activities. The activities these facilities arrange are meant to ensure the lives of residents are as rich as possible. The caregivers can work by themselves or alongside skilled nurses to provide emergency services and care in case of an incident.
Before choosing one or the other for a loved one, it is important to understand the similarities and differences between independent living vs assisted living so you make the right choice.
Nurse Care
You or a loved one can get nursing care services at an assisted living community or home. At an assisted living facility, nursing care services can be provided to seniors who need short-term care or those who need long-term comprehensive care due to chronic illnesses. Facilities that provide these services have skilled nurses who offer physical and occupational therapy, exercise, medication management, and more.
At home, these services are provided by licensed professionals who may be physical therapists, registered nurses, or other types of therapists depending on what you or a loved one needs. The Professional comes to the home and provides comprehensive care for a loved one who may be ill or injured.
Seniors managing chronic illnesses but who do not want to live in a hospital setting can opt for these services. It is an excellent option for those who need constant monitoring, personalized care, or rehabilitation.
If a loved one needs any help, it is important to get them the help they need. There are several options to consider, but the ones we have discussed above cover most of the needs seniors have.
