Did you know that too much loneliness poses health risks, such as depression or high blood pressure? Humans are social by nature, but as we age, we’re more prone to social isolation. If you’ve noticed your older family member struggling while living alone, it may be time to consider their assisted living options. It’s not an easy topic to discuss, but it could be the best solution. Assisted living provides care and a sense of community that your family member will benefit from, so read on to explore the options available to you.
Respite Care
If you serve as an in-home caregiver for your older family member, there may be times when you need a break. Luckily, it’s possible to find a short-term assisted living facility. Respite care allows your family member to move in and access elderly care for a short time. You can rely on respite care for anywhere from one to four weeks.
Continuing-Care Retirement Community
As your family member continues to age, their needs may change. If you’re looking for an assisted living facility to support them through various transitions, consider a continuing-care retirement community (CCRC). A CCRC has several residency options on the property, often including senior apartments and nursing homes. Residents can move around as their needs change and get access to more care and support. This choice is ideal if your family member wants to remain in one community.
Memory Care
Finding care for an older family member with dementia isn’t always easy. Should you ever need it, you’ll want to find a memory care facility to meet your loved one’s needs. Memory care facilities are a type of assisted living option meant for older adults with memory loss. The professionals who work in memory care are specially trained to help dementia patients.
Nursing Home
One of the most well-known elderly care options is a nursing home. This is the perfect choice for older adults that need medical care in addition to assisted living. A nurse or medical professional is always available, so your family member will be in good hands if any medical problems arise. Nursing homes are ideal as a long-term solution.
Assisted Living Community
Your final choice is, of course, an assisted living community. This option comes with a variety of service options, and most facilities even have a nurse onsite. The best assisted living community will also have activities for residents to interact and participate in. The level of care offered can vary by facility, but typically, assisted living is best for older adults that can still live independently.
Review Your Assisted Living Options
It’s never easy when you realize it’s time for your older family member to receive professional elderly care. Once you do, however, you must review all the assisted living options with your loved ones. It’s important to choose the right community for your older relative’s needs to ensure a smooth transition.
If you’re looking for additional resources on elderly care options, check out other articles on our website.