Many seniors want to age in place and stay in the home they have known for many years. This is possible as long as it’s safe and they are getting the appropriate help and socialization. It takes a lot of effort and care coordination to keep seniors at home, however the stability is worth it. Sometimes it becomes necessary for seniors to move from their home due to dwindling resources, safety issues, isolation or overwhelming crises.
Some alternative housing includes Assisted Living Facilities, Independent Living and Nursing Homes.
The first two are mostly private pay although there are Assisted Living
Programs which allow Medicaid recipients to get help although they
still have to pay for the room. Assisted Livings vary how they accept
people into their communities; all potential residents require an
assessment. Assisted Living Facilities provide help with activities
of daily living including medication management, dressing and
bathing. These are sometimes add-ons so it’s good to clarify
before you buy! Most Assisted Living Facilities provide housekeeping and
laundry services as well as three meals a day. Independent Living
facilities provide housekeeping and two meals a day. They do not provide
help with Activities of Daily Living.
Some private homes are popping up that are deemed Assisted Living facilities though are much smaller – with 15 people in them – than the larger buildings. These are few and far between in New York but are becoming more popular.
If someone has the beginnings of dementia it’s wise to be in a facility that has a secure dementia unit. This way the person can start in the regular Assisted Living community and then, if necessary, move to the other part of the building that serves people with more severe dementia.
Over 55 communities are also beneficial to seniors and helps with conserving assets. There are many opportunities for these communities and seniors should be relatively healthy and independent.
Nursing
Homes are usually the last resort and are necessary for those
requiring nursing care. In New York State a Patient Review
Instrument (PRI), a medical evaluation tool that identifies whether or
not an individual is eligible to get into a Nursing Home. As part of the
PRI, the “Screen” is required. The PRI and Screen is used to determine
the level of care and appropriateness of placement.
When there is a question whether a senior should stay in their own home or not, an independent professional, such as a Geriatric Care Manager can help sort out the issues around staying home or moving, making the decision less difficult to make.
If you or a loved one is thinking about staying home or moving and would like additional information on home care options, please call 516.603.0434 or email us at any time. We are here to help.
