Caring for loved ones at home:  This can be a viable option when the senior is in good health and requires limited assistance, provided adequate safety features in the home such as handrails, shower grab bars and stair lifts. Dementia and mobility issues may require 24/7 care, which is a challenge for working family members.  Caregivers are available to come to your home to provide basic assistance.  But the cost can be prohibitive especially for 24/7 coverage.  Remember that you will entrust your loved one to these individuals, so choose with care!  You will also need a back up person should the primary caregiver be unavailable on short notice.  Finally, even when caregivers come to assist, most families end up taking on the bulk of the caregiving work which, day after day, is demanding and unrelenting!  Over time, providing care for a parent takes a heavy toll, physically and emotionally.   Caregiving at home is sometimes not the most sustainable nor safest option.  Family members should consider all alternatives without feeling guilt, recognizing that their parents may be safest in the right surrounding and in the care of professionals.  Regardless of your ultimate choice, we want to support you to make the best decision for your loved one.  We have worked with many families through this important decision.  Call us for complimentary assistance as you consider the alternatives.

Independent living facilities:   This is most suitable for healthy and active persons who wish to live in an elderly community.  Apartments and studios with appropriate safety features are available.  Cleaning, gardening and other services can make life simpler for seniors.  Large complexes often have restaurants and other facilities like beauty salons on site.   An elderly community can be a supportive network with its own social program and even concierge service.  Some have support staff available 24/7 and can assist to arrange house calls by doctors and nurses.   This can be an excellent option for social seniors who require no assistance with daily activities of living.  Some facilities offer both independent living quarters and assisted living services, making it possible for a senior to move within the complex when the level of care increases.  From a financial stand point, these facilities are priced according to the location and service level.  Also beware that some facilities require an entrance fee that may not be refundable.

Assisted living in large facilities: Seniors requiring more assistance should consider assisted living facilities.  A large facility can house upwards of hundreds of residents, offering assistance with daily activities for different levels of needs. For socially active seniors, social events may include bingo nights and outings to the symphony.  The ratio of staff to clients is usually on the low side compared to small homes.  This means that, depending on the facility and staffing arrangements, residents may have to wait longer for assistance, which can be an issue for seniors who require assistance with daily living. Facilities offering memory care often house residents with dementia in a separate area that is specially furnished and equipped.  Consider if you would prefer a more integrated arrangement.  In terms of costs, large facilities must support active sales/marketing activities and features like reception areas or elaborate landscaping.  All of these elements contribute to the cost base.  There are often “add on” fees for services such as TV and Wi-fi.  Many facilities charge for incontinence care or even laundry and showers beyond the weekly service.