When trying to plan out the care of an elderly loved one, numerous things can come up that need to be taken into consideration. For now, let’s look at some of the questions you should ask, and some of the differences between home care and care at assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
First off, when you’re thinking about which services to use, an outline of your loved one’s specific needs would be beneficial. List those concerns and write out answers to them. Some questions that you can ask to assist in this process include:
- What type of help does my loved one need to be able to live as independently as possible?
- What are his or her healthcare, nutritional requirements, supervision, companionship, housekeeping and transportation needs?
- How much money is allotted to pay for these services?
- Will insurance cover any of them?
- What days and times do they need assistance?
- What can I, as a family member or friend, do to help them?
Now, let’s look at some differences in the different types of health care.
Home Care
This service is provided either by professionals or family members. Professionals can give care ranging from several hours a day to 24/7 care, entirely depending on the needs of the patient. For those who just need help with daily tasks, home care is nothing more than helping with common chores. Others might need help with medications, injections, or other medical help. In these situations, certified health training is required. Home care takes both a level of healthcare and supportive services to help with the individual who is homebound, sick, or disabled, but who is living at home safely. The hours, types of care, and level of care given varies by providers.
Independent Living Facilities
This type of facility allows elders to rent condos or an apartment on a community campus. On campus, there are services that provide a wide array of socialization options, and for those who are in good health, a major benefit of these is that they allow the person to stay socially active and lessen chances of social isolation or depression. Healthcare services aren’t normally provided here, so this isn’t the best option for those with major health issues.
Assisted Living Facilities
These are very similar to their Independent cousins except for the fact that an assisted living facility provides basic health services, while ILFs do not. Residents at this type of facility live independently in their own apartments but also have access to help when needed, as there are personal care staff on-hand to help with any common chores. No skilled nurses are normally on-site, so the types of health care services provided here are often limited.
Nursing Home Care
When a person requires 24-hour care, he or she is normally moved into a nursing home, where they can get care for major medical needs from a variety of medical professionals. Residents might see RNs, LPNs, doctors, and therapists daily. Nursing home residents often live in a room on facility grounds and share them with other residents. Other needs and services provided include things like housekeeping, laundry services, meals, and recreational opportunities.
It is important to remember that the right decision to make is one based on the person’s specific needs as well as what is financially feasible for the family.
If you or someone you love needs assistance with Elder Care law issues, call 856-281-3131. Let us help ease your stress and give you a plan.