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As seniors age it may become difficult to maintain the same lifestyle they have been accustomed to enjoying. It is not unusual to find that slowing down becomes necessary. Even though most would like to continue living in the same house and performing routine chores, they sometimes find that it becomes extremely difficult. Those who enjoy good health and do not suffer from any major medical issues may begin to long for a simpler lifestyle with fewer everyday responsibilities. Many seniors do suffer from medical problems and may not want to be a burden to their families. Fortunately, there are alternatives for living well in the golden years. The level of assistance required will help determine the right path to take when searching for a facility that provides the perfect living arrangement. Making the right decision involves gathering information from several sources and consulting with family.
Assisted Living Housing
Assisted living facilities offer residents the opportunity to remain independent and live as active a life as possible. These beautiful facilities allow residents to enjoy their own private rooms or apartments and choose which social activities in which they wish to participate. This living arrangement allows residents to bring their own furniture and personal items that make the new place seem more like home. They have the option of adding any decorations they want. Most facilities allow residents to have pets if they can manage them by themselves. A trained staff performs housekeeping and residents can choose to do their own laundry if they wish. There is an extra charge if it is done by the facility.
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Social Activities in Assisted Living Most facilities have an activities director who is in charge of planning activities throughout the year. Daily and weekly activities are varied and appeal to many residents. Even though some assisted living facilities provide transportation to doctor or medical appointments, residents are allowed to own and drive their own vehicles. Organized field trips to museums, art galleries, or shopping malls keep residents active and involved. Because many apartments have kitchens, grocery-shopping trips are available. The amount of socialization desired is a personal choice.
Assisted Living Levels of Care
Assisted living residents must be able to function alone, but there is assistance available when needed. There are different levels of assistance available for those who need daily help with managing medication, daily personal hygiene, preparing meals or mobility issues. Even though assisted living requires independence, some residents are able to function well with a low level of assistance. Each additional level of care is an added expense to the monthly fees.
Assisted Living Costs
Assisted living facilities are privately owned and have a wide range of monthly fees. Depending on the state, assisting living may be $2000 up to $6000 per month. Many residents relay on their own retirement funds to pay for their living expenses since Medicare does not pay for assisted living.
Nursing Homes
Many elderly people do not enjoy the independence that is necessary to live in an assisted living environment. Many require much more assistance than assisted living can provide. This is usually due to major medical issues. A nursing home provides the ideal solution for those who cannot provide for their own needs.
Nursing Home Services
This type of environment provides round-the-clock supervision and health assistance. They have the ability to provide medication management for all residents, while assisted living facilities allow residents to handle their own medications. Those who need help with eating a meal can get that assistance if needed. Residents receive three full meals a day and snacks. A resident who needs help with personal hygiene is able to receive assistance with bathing and showering. Residents suffering from incontinence require help with changing clothes and beds. This is all a routine part of nursing home services. Nursing homes have many more trained medical professionals available to help residents get in and out of bed and walk down the hall.
Nursing Home Socialization
Nursing home residents can enjoy a single room or share a room with one other resident. Most of the furniture belongs to the nursing home. Most facilities offer activities to get residents out of bed and involved with others. Bingo games, musical programs, movies, and church services are all a part of the daily and weekly activities. All entertainment is provided on site.
Nursing Home Costs
Medicare does cover most nursing home expenses.
At Home Services
Agencies that provide hired caregivers help elderly patients by coming to the home. Sometimes a physician may recommend a variety of skilled services to help a patient stay in the home while receiving professional medical services that can include rehabilitation and physical therapy. Most recipients are suffering from an illness or an injury that limits their ability to function without some daily assistance. Medicare pays for most of these services for the elderly if a physician plan is in place .
