Continuing care today often means residence at a site which offers varying degrees of services from independent living, to assisted living, to round the clock nursing home care. Continuing care communities are the best choice for many. They offer the option of convenient transfer into a full time nursing facility with consistent mealtimes, entertainment, opportunities for socialization, when more services become required than can be provided in an assisted living facility.
But while some people thrive in a communal setting, others suffer from the stress of relocation. Homesickness and the necessity of waiting for needed attention can be a problem.
Space for personal effects is limited in a small units at some communities. Laundry may be misplaced, and menus are limited, as residents cannot plan their own meals or have easy access to favorite snacks. Some residents may cause disruptions at all hours, creating sleeping difficulties for others.
At one time, if a person could no longer care for him or herself, or move in with a family member, the only option was admittance to a nursing home, but today, if a senior community isn’t an attractive option for you or your loved one, it is often possible to remain comfortably at home, with a little help from a local business specializing in home care services.
In Home Care Options
Many of us are strongly attached to our place of residence, be it a large house or a tiny apartment, it’s the place where we feel most comfortable, the place where we hope to live out our entire life, surrounded by treasured possessions, making most of our own daily living decisions.
Today, most communities contain several home care companies, each with various levels of staff members, some available twenty four hours a day. These types of service businesses can solve the problems of home maintenance and health care, offering clients the ability to choose the comfort of familiar surroundings over the stress of moving to a long term care facility.
Health care at home can be much more personalized than the care received at some multi-resident long term care centers. One on one staffing presents the opportunity for caregivers to establish a friendship with their clients.
If a home care worker is present at all times, clients receive whatever attention is needed without an extended wait.
But is the option of home care more or less affordable than residence in a long term care facility?
Comparing the Cost of Care: In Home Versus Long Term
At NewLifeStyles, you will find helpful guidelines for evaluating various types of housing, assisted living, and home health care services available for seniors in need of assistance in your area.
There is no simple answer to the question of which is more affordable: receiving home health care services or becoming a resident of a continuing care facility.
The conclusion will differ for each situation. Several factors must be considered including the amount of care needed, the number of hours assistance is required, and the rate charged by each specific agency. In some cases requiring 24/7 services, a long term facility may be less expensive, but other considerations may enter into the decision, such as proximity to family and to preferred medical professionals.
The website: Paying for Senior Care can be quite helpful in assessing your personal requirements and determining the best solution for you or your family member, at a cost that is manageable.
Choose Carefully
Should you decide to opt for home care service, asking the right questions is key to signing with the business that’s the best fit for your situation. The AARP provides an excellent checklist that can be of assistance when interviewing each agency. Continuing care has it’s benefits, but for those who prefer personalized care in an environment that’s familiar, home care services are lessening the stress for a growing number of seniors as well as younger individuals suffering from restrictions due to illness or injury.
As you consider your options, remember to consult the New LifeStyles website for helpful information about all types of senior living sites and services in your area.