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If you have an elderly parent or loved one, you may be wrestling with issues surrounding their care and well-being. Transportation, housekeeping, personal care, medical attention and companionship are just a few of the aspects of aging that children are concerned about. Addressing these concerns can have different cost, care, family and social consequences. While change can be viewed negatively and met with resistance, it should not be viewed with dread. Choosing the right option can result in a significant improvement in your senior's health, security, happiness and well- being. It can alleviate a significant emotional and financial strain on the entire family. Here are some options on types of elderly care available today: 1. Independent Senior Living - Apartment style living with minimal care but with a number of on-site services such as food preparation, transportation and community activities Seniors are fully independent, but don't have the burdens that caring for a house or an apartment require when living on their own. The biggest attraction of this feature is that seniors can enjoy friendship and activities in a community environment. While seniors who would use this option are probably capable of living on their own, the community atmosphere, the extra security and convenience make this a very attractive option. Insurance does not cover Independent Senior Living Facilities. 2. Home Health Care - The elderly can have a good amount of independence and continue to live an active high quality with a good home care option. Assistance is provided at the senior's residence. The services can range from full 24 hour care by trained medical personal to a couple hours a day of specific care. Assistance with transportation, home care, personal care and respite care for the family caregivers are some of the services provided. You will need to do some research to determine what types of services are covered by your insurance options. 3. Assisted Living - This option offers apartment style living with a higher level of care and monitoring than an independent living facility. These facilities assist the elderly with their daily needs, including food, laundry, and other living necessities to further their quality of life. Socialization is also part of the assisted living environment. Most assistant living facilities are private pay. 4. Nursing Homes - Around the clock care is provided in a skilled nursing environment. Many of the seniors' medical needs such as medication, diet, lab work and mental health are addressed in a skilled nursing facility. Personal care, hygiene, rehabilitation and other needs are part of the service. Often times specific illnesses can be treated in specialized units. Nursing Home facilities may offer other amenities such scheduled activities, socialization and entertainment. Nursing Facilities vary in what type of payment programs are accepted so make sure you find out this information in advance. 5. Adult Day Care - This program is for the senior who wish to continue living at their home, but need a place where they can get meals and various personal and medical care services during the day. Some adult day cares offer a number of recreational programs that provided socialization and entertainment. Facilities vary in what type of payment programs are accepted so make sure you find out this information in advance. 6. Group Homes - Group homes are best suited for seniors who are physically self-sufficient and who are comfortable living in a family home type of setting. Group homes vary in how much assistance that are able to offer. If other services such as nursing or medical care are needed, outside agencies can be contracted to provide care at the group home. Facilities vary in what types of payment they will accept so make sure to obtain this information in advance. In summary, there are plenty of viable options to consider, with a little research and consultation, one should be able to find the ideal solution that offers the best ways to meet the physical, financial and emotional needs of your elderly loved one.
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