Navigating healthcare for your elderly loved one can be a complex and overwhelming process. There are numerous senior care options available and it’s critical to choose one that fits your loved one’s unique health needs.

Understanding the different types of senior care can help you make an informed decision and ensure your loved one receives the support they need. Options include:

Table of Contents:

• What is Independent Living?
• What is Assisted Living?
• What is Memory Care Assisted Living?
• What is Hospice Care?
• What is Respite Care?
• What is Long-Term Care?
• What is At-Home Care?
• What is Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation?
• Making a Decision

Independent Living

In an independent living facility, individuals have autonomy while receiving as-needed support with household responsibilities.

Independent living primarily serves active older adults, those with disabilities, or individuals who require little to no assistance.

Usually, residents can care for themselves but choose independent living because the facilities provide access to meals, transportation, health care services, and social activities in a setting that enables individuals to be a part of a community while living self-sufficiently.

Independent living facilities free residents from household responsibilities while offering unlimited opportunities to participate in activities and pursue personal interests. Residents can be as engaged or independent as they wish. Independent living places an emphasis on personal choice, community, and autonomy.

What is Assisted Living?

In an assisted living facility, residents receive support with daily tasks from medication management to social activities.

An assisted living facility provides 24/7 care while helping residents with their daily needs, from nutrition and meal preparation to medication management, personal hygiene, housekeeping, and social activities. Assisted livings are for individuals who are unable or choose not to live independently due to physical limitations, disabilities, or health conditions.

Various levels of care are offered in an assisted living facility and are personalized to provide residents with optimal physical and mental health support.

Other key highlights of assisted living include:

• Providing a community and home-like atmosphere with modern furniture, lighting, artwork, etc.
• Extensive amenities and entertainment options to promote social interaction among residents.
• Culinary programs, including farm-to-table ingredients, plant-based menus, restaurant-style dining, and more.
• Figuring out the right time for assisted living? Assisted living facilities offer residential health care in a community environment and support individuals whose medical conditions impact mobility and their ability to perform activities of daily living.
• Assisted living provides a safe environment and assures caregivers that their loved one is medically and physically safe.

 What is Memory Care Assisted Living?

A memory care assisted living facility specializes in providing care to residents who have memory loss due to Alzheimer's, dementia, and other cognitive impairment.

A memory care facility provides a nurturing and safe environment for residents who are impacted by cognitive impairments. Memory care facility staff focus on preserving residents’ cognitive skills while ensuring they are comfortable — and most importantly — safe.

Other key offerings in memory care assisted living include:

• Specialists create personalized care plans for residents to maximize independence and quality of life.
• Teams are trained to understand each condition's progression to provide the highest level of support and care.
• Sensory rooms may be available to provide gentle light, movement, music, and objects to calm and/or stimulate residents.

Many memory care buildings group residents together based on their degree of memory impairment and the level of care they need. This is a critical element of successful memory care – residents with similar cognitive abilities are found to engage more in suitable activities, build camaraderie with their fellow residents, and feel a stronger sense of belonging.

Key indications that it may be time to start exploring a memory care facility include observing changes in behavior such as:

• Confusion
• The disorientation that impacts physical safety
• Agitation
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Wandering and falls
• Decline in physical health
• Refusal of care

When your loved one needs more care than what can be provided at home, finding a memory care facility with around-the-clock, 24-hour supervision to keep residents safe may become necessary.

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice care supports individuals who are in the last phases of incurable disease or illness so they can live as fully and as comfortably as possible.

Hospice care is provided to people who are experiencing an advanced, life-limiting illness. A loved one with about six months or less of their life expectancy would likely be in hospice care. Hospice care encourages families to cherish their loved one’s remaining time and give them the highest quality of life and comfort possible.

Hospice care can be provided either at home or in an inpatient facility, depending on the individual's needs. Assisted living facilities can also offer hospice care, where a variety of medical, emotional, and spiritual services are available to both residents and their families. Hospice Care might include:

• Palliative care and symptom control
• Inpatient care where 24/7 support is provided at a hospice center
• Respite care
• Bereavement care

What is Respite Care?

Respite care allows for short-term relief for caregivers so they can take a break or go on vacation.

Respite care is temporary care that allows caregivers to take the time they need for personal matters while ensuring their loved ones receive high-quality, uninterrupted care in a safe and supportive environment. Care can be personalized for those with memory impairments to ensure their needs are met.

What Is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care covers services to meet a person's needs during a short or long period of time.

Long-term care offers a continuation of hospital-level care while providing physical and emotional aid for an extended period of time to individuals with a serious, ongoing health condition or disability. This type of care provides high-touch support for daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and mobility, among other activities, for longer periods of time.

In some instances, long-term care can also provide complex care, such as wound care, burn care, and ventilator weaning.

Long-term care can be integrated in a hospital setting or at a facility. Key services include:

• 24-hour-a-day registered nurses
• Advanced practice nurses
• Certified nursing assistants
• On-site physicians
• Licensed dieticians
• Social work services
• Spiritual support services
• Therapeutic recreation and creative arts therapies

What is At-Home Care?

At-home care allows individuals to get the care they need in their own home.

At-home care, sometimes called home health care, is provided in an individual’s home for an illness or injury. Many opt for at-home care because of the convenience factor. A primary goal of at-home care is to help individuals maintain or improve their conditions.

At-home care services can vary from nursing care to home health aides. Personalized to an individual’s needs, services can be provided by any combination of a medical doctor, nurse, physical, occupational, and speech therapist, social worker, home health aide, and/or other licensed specialist.

An at-home care nurse may be a registered nurse, licensed vocational nurse, or nurse assistant.

Nursing care offered can include:

• Needs assessment
• Developing a plan of care with their doctor
• Administering medication
• Wound care

Home health aid care offered can include:

• Assisting with activities of daily living
• Taking vital signs
• Monitoring physical and mental conditions
• Assistance with health emergencies

What is Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation?

A skilled nursing facility provides inpatient nursing care to residents who require medical, nursing or rehabilitative services but not to the acute level of a hospital setting.

Rather, a skilled nursing facility offers specialized nursing care, rehabilitation services and assistance with daily activities for patients recovering from a serious illness or surgery. It is a type of post-acute (sub-acute) care and rehabilitation following a hospital discharge.

Of all the care options, skilled nursing facilities provide the highest level of care, similar to that of a hospital, and offer transitional temporary care. The ultimate objective of a skilled nursing facility is to help residents regain health, mobility, and independence so they can return home.

Skilled nursing facilities typically include teams of licensed physical, occupational, and speech therapists, registered nurses, advanced practice nurses, on-site medicine physicians, on-site rehabilitative medicine physicians, licensed nutritionists, a multidisciplinary physician panel, and therapeutic recreation staff.

Skilled nursing facilities support those with serious illnesses and/or rehabilitative needs, such as:

• Orthopedic conditions like hip surgery or joint replacements
• Cardiac and pulmonary conditions like heart attack, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Neurological conditions like spinal cord injury, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease
• Outpatient rehabilitation like physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• General medical support for cancer recovery, arthritis, and other deconditioning illnesses

Making a Decision

At CareOne, we understand how overwhelming it can be to find the right care setting for a loved one. We’re here to help assess your loved one’s circumstances and needs so you can make a decision with dignity.

Call 855-277-8550 or complete the form below to learn more about your care options.

The post Understanding Your Senior Care Options appeared first on CareOne.

Deciding on assisted living for a family member is a profound decision rooted in care and concern. It's often a pivotal point in the lives of older adults and their families. Starting down this path requires understanding, compassion, and knowledge about when and how to make this transition.

We've compiled this list of the most important indicators that may mean assisted living is the best option for your loved one's quality of life.

Signs It’s Time for Assisted Living

1. Decreased Mobility and Increased Falls: When your loved one starts experiencing frequent falls or difficulties with mobility, it indicates additional support is needed. This could be due to age-related physical decline or medical conditions like arthritis.
2. Difficulty Managing Daily Activities and Personal Care: Noticeable struggles with daily living tasks, such as bathing, dressing, or cooking, suggest that your loved one could benefit from assisted living.
3. Increased Isolation and Reduced Social Interaction: If your family member is becoming increasingly isolated, possibly due to mobility issues or the loss of a spouse, assisted living can offer community and social engagement.
4. Signs of Neglecting Household Responsibilities: Neglecting household chores or bills may indicate that these tasks have become overwhelming or confusing.
5. Changes in Health and Need for Medical Attention: A noticeable decline in health or the need for regular medical care can necessitate the supportive environment of an assisted living facility and 24/7 care.
6. Cognitive Decline and Memory Issues: Signs of memory loss, confusion, or disorientation are critical indicators that assisted living may be necessary to ensure safety and proper care.
7. Personality Changes: Sudden drastic changes like anger, withdrawal, or suspicion suggest your loved one may need the safe, monitored care of an assisted living facility.

[Go deeper on the signs of aging to watch in your loved one.]

Understanding the Benefits of Assisted Living

Transitioning to assisted living is often viewed through the lens of necessity, but it's equally important to recognize its benefits. Assisted living is not just a solution for challenges faced in old age; it's a proactive step towards enhancing the quality of life for seniors. This environment fosters care, community, and comfort, going well beyond basic healthcare. Top benefits include:

Professional Care and Support

Assisted living facilities are staffed with trained caregivers and health professionals who provide 24-hour support. This includes assistance with daily living activities, medication management, and access to medical care. Skilled nurses on staff promptly address health emergencies, offering a level of care that can't be provided at home.

1. Opportunities for Social Engagement and Activities: One of the standout benefits is the vibrant community life. Facilities organize a range of social activities, group exercises, cultural events, and fun hobbies. This active social environment combats loneliness, a significant issue in the senior population, by providing residents with opportunities to forge new friendships and engage in communal activities.
2. Safety and Security: Assisted living facilities are designed with the safety of seniors in mind. From no-slip floors to emergency call systems and secure entrances, these environments reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the presence of staff around the clock means that help is always available, providing peace of mind to both residents and their families.
3. Nutrition and Health Management: Seniors often face unique dietary needs. Assisted living facilities offer nutritious meal plans tailored to these needs, including accommodations for specific health conditions like diabetes or heart disease. Regular, balanced meals contribute to overall health and wellness, something that can be challenging for seniors living alone.
4. Peace of Mind for Family Members: Knowing that a loved one is in a secure, supportive environment provides immense relief to family members. In assisted living facilities, staff keep families updated on their loved one's condition and manage health issues, reducing the stress and worry that home caregivers frequently face.
5. Tailored Services and Personalized Care: Assisted living is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Facilities often provide personalized care plans that cater to the individual. Customization can range from the level of assistance required to specific recreational activities, addressing each resident's personal and health needs.

Evaluating the Right Time for Transition

Deciding on the right time to transition a loved one into assisted living is a complex and deeply personal decision. It's not solely about recognizing the need for greater care but also about understanding the timing and emotional readiness of your loved one.

1. Assessing the Current Living Situation: Look closely at the living conditions of your loved one. Are they able to maintain their home safely and comfortably? Are there risks such as stairs or slippery floors? The living environment can often be the first sign your loved one needs more support.
2. Consulting with Healthcare Professionals: Regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers can offer critical insights. Doctors can provide a professional assessment of your loved one’s health and capabilities, offering advice on the level of care required.
3. Family Discussions and Considering the Loved One’s Wishes: Have open and honest conversations with your loved one about their needs and preferences. Consider their emotional and psychological readiness for such a move. Respecting their autonomy and wishes is key in making a decision that works for everyone.
4. Financial Planning and Cost Considerations: Evaluate the financial implications of assisted living. Look into insurance, savings, and potential benefits that can help cover costs. Understanding the financial aspect is crucial to ensure a sustainable and stress-free transition.
5. Recognizing Emotional Preparedness: Assess the emotional state of your loved one. Are they feeling overwhelmed with the upkeep of their current home? Do they feel lonely or isolated? Sometimes, the emotional benefits of assisted living can be a significant factor in the timing.

Steps to Take Once the Decision's Made

After making the significant decision to move a loved one into assisted living, you need to take multiple key steps to smooth the transition. This phase involves practical, legal, and emotional preparations, each playing a vital role in the process.

1. Researching Your Options: Begin by exploring various assisted living facilities. Use online resources, seek recommendations from healthcare professionals, and consult local senior care agencies. Look for places that not only meet the care needs but also align with your loved one's lifestyle and preferences.
2. Visiting and Evaluating Facilities: In-person visits to potential facilities are a must. Observe the environment, the demeanor of the staff, and the level of care provided. Interact with residents and staff, attend a meal, and participate in an activity to get a good feel of the facility.
3. Legal and Financial Preparations: Ensure all necessary legal documents are in order. This includes power of attorney, living wills, and any other relevant legal directives. Review financial arrangements, understand billing and services, and keep all financial documents organized and in easy reach.
4. Preparing for the Move: Plan the move carefully. You'll need to help your loved one decide what personal belongings to take and organize the logistics of the move. Ultimately, their living space should feel familiar and comfortable,
5. Emotional Support and Communication: Recognize the emotional impact this transition can have on your loved one. Engage in open and honest conversations, offer reassurance, and involve them in decisions about their new living space. It’s important to acknowledge their feelings and provide emotional support throughout this change.
6. Ongoing Involvement and Monitoring: After the move, maintain regular communication and visitation. Stay involved in care planning and advocate for your loved one.

With careful planning and open communication, your loved one can receive the care and support they deserve in their golden years.

[Have more questions? Read our answers to frequently asked questions about assisted living.]

Assisted Living at CareOne

At CareOne's assisted living communities, you'll find a warm atmosphere where personalized care is the priority. We offer a blend of comfort and support, with 24/7 nursing care and help with daily activities. Residents can enjoy delicious, gourmet meals, stay active with on-site fitness options, and enjoy their favorite hobbies alongside friends. We're committed to fostering a safe, healthy, and vibrant environment for all our residents.

Contact us below or find a CareOne assisted living facility near you to learn more.

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When a loved one is being discharged from the hospital, their doctor may determine that they need additional medical care before they can fully return home in a safe manner. Making the transition from hospital to skilled nursing facility is an important step in getting the right care for individuals who need special medical support and rehab, such as those recovering from a stroke, a bad fall, or surgery.

It’s a big change that needs careful planning and teamwork to make sure everything goes well and your loved one gets better. Sometimes, this change can happen very quickly and you may not have lots of time to consider your options of which skilled nursing facility to go to after the hospital.

Here’s what you should know about the process of transitioning from hospital to skilled nursing facility, and important steps to consider along the way.

• Understand the medical condition and treatment plan
• Discuss the need for a skilled nursing facility
• Ask for recommendations and options

• Identify facilities near your location
• Consider factors like reputation, quality ratings, and services offered
• Schedule tours or virtual visits

•  Initiate the admission process early
• Provide necessary medical information and documentation
• Discuss insurance coverage and payment options

• Coordinate with the hospital and facility staff for a smooth transfer
• Share medical history, medications, and special care needs
• Discuss any personal preferences or concerns

• Confirm the transfer of medical records and care plans
• Coordinate medication management and therapy services
• Establish open communication with the facility’s care team

• Understand facility rules, routines, and visiting policies
• Familiarize yourself with available amenities and support services
• Communicate your needs and preferences to the staff

• Plan regular visits or virtual check-ins with your loved one
• Engage in meaningful activities together
• Communicate with the care team regarding updates and when your loved one can go home

Skilled nursing facilities play a vital role in providing specialized care and support for individuals with complete medical needs. They also help patients recover and their families feel more secure before they go home after a hospital stay. So, when your loved one transitions from hospital to skilled nursing facility, it’s important to be patient, keep open communication with their care team, and provide support for your loved one.

For more information about skilled nursing facilities, fill out the form below or call 855–277–8550.

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