This is a tough decision for everyone involved. Of course, if it is possible, aging in place is the best solution. However if a senior needs special medical care then this might not be possible. Ideally this has to be a group effort with the parent and relatives and friends all doing research on the available options. The article below discusses the various options.
How to pick a long-term-care facility when your loved one can’t live alone
The author, Bonnie Lawrence of the Family Caregiver Alliance gives some good advice.
- The senior parent and a relative should visit several care communities. Get a tour, have lunch, look at the menu and schedule of activities. Most importantly observe how the staff interacts with the residents.
- Speak with residents.
- Check the facility’s record. How many complaints have been filed?
- Find out the cost and whether any of it is covered by Medicare or your private insurance policies. This can be very tricky as Medicare doesn’t usually pay for long-term care.
The article also lists the different types of communities that can accommodate seniors. These are:
- Residential care facility – these are for residents who do not need skilled nursing attention
- Assisted Living facility – nursing staff are available
- Skilled nursing facility – also called “nursing homes”, nurses are available 24/7
Other options are mentioned in the article:
- The Eden or Greenhouse Alternative in Care Communities – You can find out more about these at the following link: http://www.edenalt.org/
- Program for All Inclusive Care (Pace)
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities