4 Alternatives to Nursing Homes
There are few things more important than caring for our aging loved ones. As someone who grew up volunteering in long term care facilities, I know the importance of finding a place that not only you can trust, but that your family members can love to be at. Here are some options to consider if you have an aging family member that needs long term living assistance.
Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities can be a fantastic alternatives to a standard nursing home. These facilities offer nearly all the comforts of home, but with a community of support all around. Certified and trained staff members are available to assist with bathing, medication, dressing, using the bathroom, and anything else they may need assistance with. Another perk to living in an assisted living facility is that residents are afforded their own private apartments, though buddy suites are an option. Activities are often hosted in the facility as well which help to keep residents active and entertained. Some assisted living facilities will also include specialized memory care floors, but this can vary by facility depending on where you live. If you have a loved one who needs dementia treatment, or alzheimers care, I would definitely suggest researching the assisted living facilities near you, to see what services they can provide.
Subsidized Senior Housing
There are government programs that will assist with the cost of housing for older people who have a low to moderate income margin. In some instances they programs will also offer other benefits such as:
- Housekeeping
- Grocery shopping
- Laundry
Additionally, if more care is needed a live in caregiver can be hired to help assist with daily tasks, and serve as a good source of companionship.
Live in Care
Whether you qualify for a subsidized program, or you just want to keep your loved one in their own home, hiring a live in caregiver is another wonderful alternative to a nursing home. With a live in caregiver your loved one can stay in the home they are most comfortable in, and you can have peace of mind knowing that someone is looking out for them. Live in caregivers grant a reliability that you can trust, and have the potential of forming worthwhile bonds as well. Their responsibilities can include:
- Companionship
- Meal prep, and shopping
- Transportation
- Medication reminders
24 Hour Care
While 24 hour care is similar to live in care, these care providers usually work in shifts. 24 hours care would be more fitting for a family member who needs turning every couple hours to prevent bed sores, or someone with dementia who should not be unattended for any period of time. It is also beneficial for those who qualify as high fall risks. 24 hours caregivers are available and alert at all hours, whereas live in caregivers are better suited for those who do not need much attention during the night.
If considering live in or 24 hour care, it is essential to know how much attention and assistance your loved one needs. Both have the option of keeping your loved one in their own home, the familiarity of which can be a good thing for those who need memory care attention.
Most people don\’t like the idea of sending their loved one to live in a nursing home, but these 4 alternatives can assure your family member gets the care they need, while enjoying where they live. We all want the best for our aging family members, and we want them to continue to flourish with dignity and comfort. If you have someone in need of care, I urge you to consider these options and see which ones would be best for you.