Discover in-home healthcare options that are safe and comfortable

Choosing the right care option is a major life decision that merits considerate thought. Before you make any decisions, think about what you need, as well as what you want. Then, carefully evaluate your options to determine the best fit. From home care and medical alert systems to assisted living and skilled nursing, there’s something for every stage of life to help you age safely and comfortably in your chosen surroundings.


Do

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  • determine how often care is needed
  • determine what type of care is needed
  • determine available financial resources
  • consider what your ultimate objective is
  • consider the essentials for a living arrangement now and in the future
Don't

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  • assume a skilled nursing home is your only option
  • overlook what you want
  • decline assistance from loved ones
  • forget about home renovations
  • ignore your instincts

[publishpress_authors_data]'s recommendation to ExpertBeacon readers: Do

Do determine how often care is needed

This could range from a couple hours a week for the relatively self-sufficient to 24/7 care for those with significant health issues. In a typical day, what activities are challenging or impossible to perform (e.g., driving, going up and down the stairs, bathing, etc.)? It’s also a good idea to perform a home safety check to identify potential fall hazards, etc. Once you identify areas of concern, you can determine how much help you require.

Do determine what type of care is needed

Make a list of health concerns and/or daily activities you have trouble completing. Then, categorize them into:

  • General assistance, for example driving, grocery shopping, preparing meals, laundry, housekeeping, etc.
  • Personal care, including bathing, dressing, eating, etc.
  • Medical care, such as monitoring vital signs, managing multiple medications, a fear of falling, etc.

Skilled nursing patients often have significant health issues that require round-the-clock medical care. Assisted living residents typically require personal assistance and possibly medical attention. Home care clients receive one-on-one care in the comfort of home as often as is needed to maximize safety and independence.

Do determine available financial resources

Healthcare services and products can be funded by a wide range of resources, including private pay, long-term care insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, a reverse mortgage and/or the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit. Once you know where you stand financially, reference the Genworth 2013 Cost of Care Survey to get an idea of how much care services cost in your state or region.

Do consider what your ultimate objective is

Your overall well-being depends not only on your health and wellbeing, but also your happiness. Studies show nearly 90% of people age 65 and older want to stay at home for as long as possible. The reason is simple – it’s more comfortable and allows for greater independence. These days, many home healthcare agencies offer a wide range of affordable services and medical alert systems to allow people to age in place in the comfort of home for longer than would otherwise be safely possible.

Do consider the essentials for a living arrangement now and in the future

As you age, life may become more challenging, so it’s important to consider what your needs are today, as well as down the road. Many of today’s senior living communities offer a full range of care services and products, known as a Continuum of Care, but many don’t know they can get that at home too. Some home health agencies enable people to move from one level of care to another while staying in the comfort of their home, thereby providing uninterrupted care.


[publishpress_authors_data]'s professional advice to ExpertBeacon readers: Don't

Do not assume a skilled nursing home is your only option

These days, there are several care options available for every stage of life to enable safe and comfortable aging. Skilled nursing patients typically have significant health issues that warrant long-term or temporary rehabilitative care provided by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and nurse’s aides. Costs vary by region, and patients have either a private or semi-private room. Even if you require this level of care, it’s possible a home health aide could provide the attention you require in the comfort of home. They can also supplement care provided by friends and family.

Do not overlook what you want

Your comfort and happiness play a significant role in your overall health and wellbeing, so it’s important to consider what you want, as well as what you need. Depending on your unique situation, it’s possible your care needs could be met by a home care agency or retirement community, rather than skilled nursing facility. In fact, research shows many seniors fear loss of independence more than they fear death.

Do not decline assistance from loved ones

Accepting help from others can be difficult, but doing so may allow you to maintain a level of independence that would be impossible otherwise. Depending on the level of care you require, it’s possible friends and family can provide support. You may also consider enlisting the services of a professional caregiver or home health aide to assist when loved ones can’t.

Do not forget about home renovations

Perform a home safety check. It’s possible your care needs could be met by making modifications to your existing living environment. If you have trouble getting up and down the stairs, consider installing ramps and moving your bedroom to the first floor. If you have trouble showering, install grab bars. If you have a fear of falling, remove potential fall hazards (e.g., loose rugs, drapery/blind cords) and consider using a 24/7 emergency response button.

Do not ignore your instincts

Choosing the right care option is a major life decision that will affect every aspect of your life, from your health and safety to your happiness and financial security. It merits significant consideration and evaluation of all your options to determine the best fit. Go with your gut! If something doesn’t feel right, move on. It’s worth the extra time and effort to find a care option you and your loved ones are comfortable with.


Summary

Today’s healthcare options range from home care and medical alert systems to assisted living and skilled nursing homes. When choosing the right care option, it’s important to consider your health and safety needs, as well as your comfort and happiness.

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