Assisted Living Services
Assisted living allows seniors to maintain dignity and quality of life while simultaneously receiving the care and services they require. Finding the the appropriate care is paramount. Below is a table for evaluating when assisted living services may be beneficial.
Reason for Assisted Living | Description |
Declining Health | As people age, chronic health conditions like heart disease, dementia, or mobility issues can make it difficult to live independently and safely at home. |
Memory Issues | For those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, memory specific communities offer specialized care in a secure environment. |
Loneliness and Isolation | After a spouse’s death or if family is far away, isolation increases the cognitive need to receive companionship. |
Difficulty with Daily Tasks | When activities like bathing, dressing, cooking, and managing medications become too challenging alone, assistance is needed with completing daily tasks. |
Fall Risks | If someone has fallen repeatedly or has balance/strength issues increasing fall risks at home, a facility may be appropriate. (Falling is the # 1 cause of death for senior citizens). |
Each of these factors can contribute to the decision to transition to an assisted living facility where the elderly person can receive the care and support they need while maintaining their quality of life. Make sure to involve extended family members in this decision and always speak with your doctor.
What Types of Specialized Assisted Living Services are Available ?
Assisted living becomes can become necessary for those who seek a balance between independence and support, ensuring safety and enhancing quality of life while providing social opportunities and professional medical care.
Independent Living Communities with Amenities:
These communities offer housing options like apartments, condos, or houses that are designed for older adults who are still fully independent and active. Residents must be able to live on their own without any personal care services. Optional food plans are available. However they often do no provide transportation or healthcare services which must be arranged by the individual.
Assisted Living Communities:
Assisted living facilities provide housing, support services, and personal care assistance for residents who need some help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, medication management, etc. Care levels can range from minimal assistance to full assistance depending on each resident’s needs. Staff is available 24/7 to provide care services.
Memory Care Communities:
These specialized facilities are designed for individuals living with alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other types of memory impairments. They offer secure environments with floor plans and programming aimed at maximizing safety and quality of life for residents. Staff receive specific training to care for those with memory issues. Higher levels of personal care and health monitoring are provided.
Skilled Nursing Facilities:
These residential facilities provide high levels of care for individuals with specialized medical needs such as around-the-clock skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for significant, long-term health issues. Services include assistance with ADLs, medication administration, therapy, skilled nursing care, and supervision. These are for seniors who can no longer live independently due to physical or mental conditions.
Rehabilitation Facilities:
Rehab facilities offer inpatient rehabilitative services for seniors recovering from a temporary illness, injury, or surgery. Services include physical, occupational, and speech therapy with the goal of returning the patient to their highest functional ability. Care is short-term until the resident can transition back home or to a lower level of care.
When is a Hospice Appropriate?
When anyone has a terminal illness and is nearing the end of life, hospice care becomes a vital consideration. Hospice provides comprehensive comfort care and including support services for individuals and their families. It focuses on managing pain, alleviating symptoms, and enhancing quality of life over curative treatments.
Hospice is typically recommended when a person has an estimated life expectancy of six months or less. However, hospice will be beneficial even earlier, helping patients and families navigate the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges that come with a life-limiting illness. With a team-oriented approach, hospice aims to provide compassionate care and guidance during this profound transition for the entire family.
What Approvals are Required to Enter an Assisted Living Facility?
Moving a senior citizen into an assisted living facility typically requires several approvals and steps:
Approval/Step | Description |
---|---|
Assessment by the Facility | The facility assesses if they can meet the senior’s care needs. |
Financial Approval | Approval to ensure the senior can afford the services provided by the facility. |
Medical Clearance | Medical evaluation to confirm the senior’s health needs can be met. This is often done by one’s doctor however some facilities may have additional requirements. |
Family Consent | Consent from family or legal guardians if the senior cannot make decisions independently. |
Legal Documentation | Necessary legal documents such as power of attorney or guardianship. |
Contract Signing | Signing a contract with the facility outlining terms of residency and services. |
This table outlines the common approvals and steps required for moving a senior citizen into an assisted living facility, ensuring a structured and comprehensive approach to the transition process.
Working with a Healthcare Navigator / Guidance Service:
A healthcare navigator is a professional who advises patients and their families through the complexities of the healthcare system. Healthcare navigators play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the care and support they need, particularly for those with chronic or complex medical conditions.
With a healthcare navigator you will get real guidance from advisors with first-hand knowledge of independent living, assisted living and dementia care in the local area. A good navigator will be with you throughout the process before, during and after your move to ensure success for you and your family.
What Help Can I Expect from a Guidance Service ?
Care Coordination:
Healthcare navigators work closely with patients to coordinate their care across multiple providers, specialists, and healthcare facilities. They help schedule appointments, facilitate communication between different healthcare teams, and ensure continuity of care.
Resource Identification:
Navigators are knowledgeable about various healthcare resources, including support services, community programs, financial assistance options, and educational materials. They connect patients with the appropriate resources based on their specific needs.
Patient Education:
Healthcare navigators play a vital role in educating patients about their medical conditions, treatment options, and self-management strategies. They provide clear explanations, answer questions, and ensure that patients and their families have a thorough understanding of their healthcare journey.
Advocacy:
Navigators advocate for patients, ensuring their rights are protected and their voices are heard. They assist patients in communicating their preferences, concerns, and goals to healthcare providers, facilitating shared decision-making.
Barrier Reduction:
Healthcare navigators work to identify and address potential barriers to care, such as language barriers, transportation issues, financial constraints, or cultural differences. They help patients overcome these obstacles and access the care they need.
Emotional Support:
Navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming and stressful for patients and their families. Healthcare navigators offer emotional support, empathy, and encouragement, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve overall well-being.