The prospect of moving elderly parents out of their home and into a managed residential environment can be the most difficult decision a family can make. There’s the actual conversation, which is daunting enough – but there’s also the tough process of sorting through different senior living options and trying to pinpoint which one suits mom or dad’s needs.
The different categories of senior living are often misunderstood or confused, based on partial or outdated understanding of what they are – and what they’re not. Here’s an overview of the three options most often considered:
- Independent Living: IL is an ideal option for seniors ready to let go of day-to-day property and homecare responsibilities but who want to live independently, with the convenience of 24-hour security and various other amenities. Community members usually have the choice of cooking for themselves or relying on the in-house culinary staff, as well as the option of in-house laundry facilities, transportation services, and staff-organized social gatherings, and other amenities.
- Assisted Living: Assisted Living communities offer all of the above, with additional hands-on support in everyday tasks that have become difficult to perform solo. These tasks include bathing and attention to personal appearance; laundry and dressing; incontinence care; medication reminders, as well as cleaning and housekeeping. Assisted Living community members are understood to need that kind of help, while not requiring round-the-clock support 7 days a week.
- Memory Care: Memory Care offers intensive, 24-hour support in a therapeutic setting, with staff-managed meals, healthcare, and activities. Care programs are tailored to residents’ individual needs and designed to make them feel secure and successful each day. Managed activities include exercise and movement; music appreciation; outdoor recreation; and simple interactions designed to engage, stimulate, and encourage.
Ideally, you want your loved one to be a partner in this decision – but we know this isn’t always possible, depending on their cognitive capacity and state of mind. Consult their physician and ask concrete questions about what physical needs exist now and are likely to develop in the short term. Include any others in the support circle, like home health aides or social workers.
And we’re here to help as well. Call us anytime at 339-206-8979 or, click here to come and see us for a consultation and discuss these options in-depth and get your questions answered.