As your parents grow older and become seniors, there may be circumstances in which their aging may affect your life as well as the lives of other members of the family. If they’re living alone, you may find yourself constantly thinking about whether their everyday needs are met, and though they may be in excellent physical health, you can’t help but worry about how they’re living, separate from you.
With the advent of new technologies, older adults can avail themselves of many convenient services, such as preparing their will through online services like Willed or similar services. Many companies today offer products, services, and living arrangements designed for the aging population. Thanks to the aged care industry, there are numerous care options available for all families. Depending on your budget and preferences, your elderly loved ones can have access to care services if they’re no longer capable of living independently or can’t take care of some things on their own.
Whether you’re looking for short-term or long-term care arrangements, here are some care options to consider.
1. Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are most suitable for active, self-supporting seniors 55 years old and above. In this kind of housing arrangement, older adults live independently in a residential setting and enjoy community life with other seniors. Housing varies, from apartments, complexes and duplexes to single detached homes.
Amenities in such a community include gyms, clubhouses, and yard cleaning, housekeeping, and security services. Some also offer transportation, laundry services, group dinners, and social gatherings. Depending on the provider, there may even be an option for communal meals. Regular visits from a nurse or doctor may also be included in an independent living community package.
Independent living communities are an excellent choice for someone who enjoys their freedom and the companionship of fellow seniors yet still requires some support.
2. Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living refers to a senior housing community with staff members capable of helping with basic needs and routines. In assisted living communities, seniors have the liberty to live alone, whether in an apartment or house, but can contact staff members for support at any time they may wish. Assisted living is suitable for those who want to live normally but need help with their daily activities.
Seniors in an assisted living facility are supervised, assisted, and cared for by healthcare workers, who’d make sure their needs are seen to. At the same time, seniors are able to enjoy recreational, social, and educational activities with others. Depending on the facilities, some assisted living communities come with gyms, pools, game rooms, and more.
There may also be the option to have full meals delivered every day, as well as access to housekeeping, laundry and other maintenance services. Medication is also typically monitored and administered by assisted living staff, ensuring that all vital medications are taken.
3. Care Homes
Private homes are sometimes converted to care homes for a limited number of elderly people. They typically offer all meals as well as 24/7 staffing, which makes them a good alternative to assisted living.
If your elderly loved one prefers a smaller care setting, this might be the perfect arrangement for them as there are only a small number of people living together in an exclusive, private home. For seniors who require a lot of attention, and are very private, family care homes could be a good choice as they can receive one-on-one care from a healthcare professional, whom they could become more familiar and comfortable with.
4. Family Care
Family care is an option that may be ideal for you if you have a larger home that can occupy several family members. Housecalls from doctors, or telehealth appointments may be required for seeing to the needs of your eldely relative.
For this setup to work, the decision must be made, taking into consideration other family members and any live-in partner. Another important consideration in this kind of setup is your living space and whether you have the care facilities required to see to the needs? Is there enough space for everyone to live comfortably? Can you ensure everyone would still have privacy despite living on the same roof?
Consider also their needs for care and level of mobility, as well as your schedule. You might be working full time and may not be around to check their condition. This would make them feel alone or isolated.
If this kind of living arrangement is not feasible, it might be best to consider an independent or assisted living community.
5. Hospice Care
Providing your loved ones with optimal comfort during the final stages of their lives is the goal of hospice care. Quality of life is prioritised, as well as pain management. Hospice care is intended for those with medical conditions requiring constant support and assistance.
Hospice care is usually open to seniors who suffer from a terminal diagnosis or have a six-month or less prognosis. In a hospice, your loved one is assured attention from doctors as well as nursing services. All medical equipment and supplies are provided. Depending on the illness, drugs and pain management tools are also made available to patients. There may be additional services offered, such as physical therapies, counselling, and even social work services.
6. Homemaker Services
Nonmedical homemakers are primarily responsible for home management and the activities of daily living. If someone you know needs extra help with the maintenance of their home, such a service may be a good option, as it may help an aged loved one who doesn't have the energy or time to do chores. These services offer some care and assistance, including housekeeping, laundry, meal preparations, pet care, transportation, and companionship.
Before choosing which arrangement would work, it's essential to discuss all options with your loved one. Let them decide which option they feel is best for them. You may also seek advice from the rest of the family members. Remember, your ultimate goal is to find an arrangement where everyone can be happy and healthy both physically and mentally.