About Senior Care Options Across America  We live in a world of options. Senior Care is no exception. Today there are more housing and care options for seniors than ever before - many allowing the senior to "age in place" with others designed to provide support services to residents with various physical and personality needs. There is an appropriate care setting for each elderly and disabled citizen available in each State. Considering the senior's personality traits, present and past living environments, likes and dislikes, cultural and religious upbringing - are all critical to make appropriate care living environment choices. The whole person must always be taken into account, otherwise, we risk providing a disservice rather than a service to seniors. Understanding the variety of care settings is also important. Choices must always be made not solely for our convenience or to our likes, but hopefully will involve the active participation of the senior requiring care, if possible and appropriate. Studies show that about 80% of today's seniors would choose to remain in their own home, when additional care is needed. One's home is always an option. Some excellent In-Home care specialists, (both medical and non-medical) are available today. Safety, personal cost, and the person's total physical and emotional health need to be taken into account. Living alone can often result in increased isolation, loneliness and rapid health deterioration. Bringing someone into the home to help with daily tasks may be a very viable and welcome option, along with providing other means of social interaction and companionship. This may not always be the most appropriate option, however, if full consideration is being given to factors such as the person's increased care needs. It's never any easy decision to take the next step. Involving a Geriatric Care Manager, Consultant, Social Worker, Doctor, or even members of support groups can often be a wise decision. Familiarizing the senior and the family with the many options available today is also important. Most care communities welcome you to stop in for a visit or to have your questions answered. You are encouraged to e:mail or call the facilities listed on this website and request their informational packets. If you wish to tour a care facility, it is recommended that you call ahead whenever possible, especially with the smaller home-like settings such as Adult Family Homes, in order that the provider can give you their full attention when you arrive. Arranging a visit at a time when the seniors are not requiring their attention is important. Calling ahead is not usually necessary in larger facilities, but appreciated. Today - America offers seniors a wealth of lifestyles and settings. Taking the time to explore and support that variety in your state, will help assure that quality care will remain part of what we give to our seniors. If you have concerns about senior care in general - let your concerns be known to your elected government officials. ? ? ? |
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