Senior Assisted Living

Answer 1

Many adult children find themselves in the position of having to find suitable living arrangements for their aging parents. For most of these parents, it is no longer feasible for them to remain in their own homes due to some sort of health deterioration. This impairment could be physical or could be related to Alzheimer’s or some other age-related disability which makes it unrealistic for the parent or parents to retain independent living but who are otherwise still mobile and capable of some self-care. Assisted living may also be necessary for younger adults who, through illness, accident, or mental impairment, are unable to fully care for themselves.

Finding the most appropriate assisted living facility for a loved one will likely involve factors such as location, cost, and the specific needs of the individual.

Choosing a location that is convenient and allows the patient’s family and friends to visit easily can be an important factor when choosing an assisted living facility. Often, leaving a home they have lived in for many years and which holds many memories is a difficult transition for the individual and being allowed to maintain established relationships can be vital to their emotional health. A facility located near public transportation could help ensure visits, as well as making it possible for the resident who is still mobile to visit, shop, and attend church services and other activities. Many assisted living facilities offer transportation services, as well.

The cost of assisted living is generally about 60% of what a full care facility would be, although the eventual cost is usually determined by the level of care needed. For some residents, their care may be limited to such things as help with bill-paying, medications, and light housekeeping; for others, more intensive care may be needed and the cost is likely to reflect that. Typically, assisted living care is paid for by the resident or by other personal means but Medicaid may pay a certain amount if the resident’s assets don’t exceed a specific amount.

Answer 2

One of the more difficult life transitions can be moving an older adult from a beloved home to a facility that can provide daily care. Finding seniors assisted living is a is an important transition facing families across the country every day. However, seniors assisted living doesn’t mean the end to a productive, active and enjoyable life.

The first step to finding an appropriate seniors assisted living facilities is determining the needs of the senior adult. Seniors assisted living facilities provide help with daily care, while still allowing a certain level of independence for the senior adult. Seniors assisted living is geared to meet the needs of individuals who do not require skilled nursing around the clock. Seniors assisted living services include providing meals, helping with the daily routine of bathing and dressing, providing appropriate exercise and activities, monitoring medication, and offering assistance getting around.

Seniors assisted living facilities offer shared and private rooms, and some even have apartment-like units. There are also smaller, more intimate seniors assisted living homes, which provide daily care in a residential setting. Daily activities and a wide range of amenities, including Swimming Pools and exercise facilities are an important part of seniors assisted living. Determining the right type of facility involves finding the right seniors assisted living facility that meets both the price and care needs. Affordable seniors assisted living alternatives exist, but require some research and comparison. Costs and insurance coverage can vary greatly from place to place.

Navigating this important transition from the familiarly of home to seniors assisted living doesn’t have to be difficult. Many services are available online and in the local community that offer helpful resources and advice. Many of these helpful services are provided for free because they receive their fees from the seniors assisted living facilities, or non-profit and government sources.

If the health needs of a senior adult are more serious, seniors assisted living may not be the best choice. A nursing home, on the other hand, has medical personnel on staff, including skilled nurses and doctors. They also offer physical, speech and occupational therapy. While both seniors assisted living and nursing homes help residents with dressing, bathing, walking and providing meals, a nursing home can coordinate the long term care between the facility and medical staff.