Eldercare is the care provided to senior citizens when they are physically incapable of taking care of themselves and living alone.
This care is inevitable, as in, everybody will get older and may need help with even the dullest day to day routines like brushing teeth or getting around the house.
While most will say it is a blessing to live a long life, old age can become a curse because of health issues and improper finances. And, let’s face it, elder care needs both money and time.
This is where elder care comes in. There are several types of eldercare opportunities that can ensure a comfortable old age based on the preferences of the individuals as well as their families.
Finance plays a significant role in this decision and is divided into two major categories: family-provided care and professional-provided care. Following is a list of eldercare facilities provided in the United States. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Family Provided Care
The family provided care is when a senior citizen is cared for at the place of their choice by a family member. This kind of care can be provided in two ways: an elderly may be cared at their own home by a family member, or they move to a family member’s house for the care.
In both situations, the family may decide to care for the elderly member on their own ultimately, or they can hire an in-home healthcare professional/full—time nurse based on the medical needs of the person in question.
Families can also opt to work with other service providers like house-keepers, chore workers, and healthcare professionals to make the home eldercare a smooth process for everyone involved in the equation.
Hiring a helping hand can help the family members continue their lifestyle while ensuring that the older adult receives the best care while being surrounded by their loved ones.
Adult Day Programs
Adult day programs are similar to the concept of a day-care facility for kids. It offers a structured set up where the elders are supervised in the day time.
More specifically, at adult day programs, elders get an opportunity to participate in various activities and interact with people from the same age group. In this arrangement, they can also receive therapy services, medical care, and educational programs.
Adult day programs have two formats, which can also be combined to create one plan. One adult day program format focuses on providing the elderly with a conducive environment for communication and social interaction.
Another format focuses on catering to the medical needs of the elderly from Monday to Friday. This form of eldercare is ideal for seniors who do not have medical needs or do not need round the clock medical attention.
An adult day program comes in a respite for families who want their elderly to stay with them but have to work for a few hours every day.
Independent Living Facilities
Independent living facilities are quite popular with senior citizens who are physically fit and would like to live in a community that is specially created for them.
Most independent living facilities offer condominiums or apartments on campus for both rents as well as purchase. These complexes are designed with the focus to provide senior citizens with a comfortable lifestyle.
Everything here from the walkways to the bedrooms is created with an eye for the needs of aged people like railings in the bathroom, unique non-slippery tiles, etc.
The primary benefit offered by independent living facilities is the recreational and social opportunities for the residents — the cost of living in such campuses often similar or slightly higher than living in regular communities.
The rates of the property depend on the general real estate rates in the neighborhood.
Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities are also known as a retirement community, adult foster care, board and care, and residential care facility.
These facilities offer a somewhat independent living arrangement where the senior citizens can avail of personal care while having access to essential health care services, social interactions, and recreational activities.
Stay options at such facilities are charged based on the real estate price in the area. Additional costs are added based on the nature of service availed by the residents. Assisted living facilities are ideal for individuals who may need physical aid as well as specialized medical services.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are dedicated health care centers that provide care for older adults who need round the clock assistance and care.
In nursing homes, seniors receive specialized medical attention from registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nurse aides. Residents staying at nursing homes can opt to stay in private rooms. Families or individuals can also request for shared rooms to save expenses or for other reasons.
Nursing homes provide services inclusive of meals, housekeeping, linen services, and care from social workers and medical staff.
In some places, residents may also experience social and recreational activities. Nursing homes are divided into three major types: primary care, skilled care, and sub-acute care.
The cost of care in nursing homes depends on the kind of care needed by the resident. Expenses depend on charges decided by the federal government in the area.
Continuum of Care Facilities
Continuum of care facilities offers a wide variety of services to the residents. It provides a basic setup with services on a la-Carte basis.
Residents can opt for basic assisted living to skilled nursing care, all at the same place based on their personal and medical needs. Health services at Continuum facilities include a range of services from Alzheimer’s services to rehabilitation.
This kind of facility is suited for elders with progressive health conditions that may increase their level of required care with time. Continuum care facilities offer the most flexible combination of independent living and in-care living.
Dementia Care Facilities
Dementia Care Facilities are also known as Alzheimer’s facilities. These centers specialize in care for patients of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. They provide comprehensive assistance inclusive of assistance with daily living, skilled nursing, and social and community activities.
The state regulates dementia care facilities, and based on their regulations, they can administer medications. Residents here can choose to stay in private or semi-private rooms and enjoy services like meals, housekeeping, and laundry.
Skylark Senior Care offers senior home care by trained caregivers. We provide care in conditions like transitioning home after a hospital stay, respite care from caregiving duties, and memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease.