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While researching senior living options, it is important to always keep in mind the needs of your loved one and the services that are provided by the facility in question. Keep the following in mind:
For "active" seniors
In continuing care retirement communities (CCRC), independent and active lifestyles are promoted and supported for as long as possible. While financial security is a must to gain entrance and pay for monthly fees, CCRCs are in demand thanks to comprehensive care guarantees, which assures that the amount of assistance given can be modified to meet loved-ones' needs. Should their health needs change, their CCRC contract will enable them to move another living facility–within the community– that will provide the level of care needed.
“When a facility offers a continuum of care, each resident can trust that they will be taken care of no matter what,” says Jeanne Chitty, former director of resident services for Brandon Oaks, a premier retirement community in Roanoke, VA. “In a CCRC, residents never have to worry that they’ll be alone. They have a whole spectrum of care at their fingertips.”
As for the benefits of independent living, Chitty explains, “Parents don’t need to deal with the upkeep of a house and they’re looking for a more country club lifestyle.” CCRCs are comparable to the feel of college community. “In a CCRC, residents are provided with everything you can possibly think of," says Chitty. "Regardless of your condition, you can get around every single hour of the day.” From cocktail parties to lectures, dances to seminars, residents are encouraged to mingle, remain active, get involved, and feel at home.
For loved ones who need assistance with daily activities
“Assisted living is between independent living and skilled nursing care. It focuses on independence, not dependence,” explains Nicole Twoey-Cieslewicz, a licensed registered occupational therapist. People who choose assisted living can expect the facility to provide support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, cooking, housekeeping, taking medicine, and getting around, says Twoey-Cieslewicz. While assistance is available on a more skilled level, residents of an assisted living community stay in control of their own lives and the activities. (Note that assisted living facilities can be found as part of a CCRC or nursing home, or as stand-alone properties.)
For loved ones who prefer the comfort of their own houses, there is home care. Patients retain their independence while skilled home care workers visit their home and assist at various levels. Health and social services are available in the form of aid with ADLs, but also for those disabled, in recovery, or chronically or terminally ill who require medical or therapeutic treatment.
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