You might be surprised to find that senior living today looks much different than that of years past. It has evolved to meet a diverse range of lifestyles and care needs. With more options than ever to choose from, knowing which is the right fit for you or your loved one might be difficult. Here’s a breakdown of different services and what type of support to expect with each.
In-Home Care
In-home care is an option for seniors who are still independent but could benefit from extra assistance. This is a great option for those who feel most comfortable in their home and wish to stay there, as it creates options for flexibility based on a person’s individual needs.
If most tasks are still manageable for you or your family member, it may work to stay at home with a bit of added care. Home health professionals are available to provide support with daily activities, medication assistance, bathing, meals and light household chores such as vacuuming or doing laundry.
Something to consider when choosing in-home care is opportunities for social interaction: Some individuals benefit from the social settings of senior communities or options other than in-home care. If you or your loved one chooses to stay in the home, plan for family visits and social outings on a regular basis.
Related: 3 Signs of Senior Loneliness
Senior Daycare
Senior daycare programs are beneficial for those who require more supervision throughout the day. Daycares offer cognitive stimulation and social activity. This can be a great environment for seniors who enjoy social settings and getting out of the house. Outside of the social element, senior daycare also can assist with professional health attention.
Staff at daycare centers provide:
- Medication assistance
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Meal assistance
- Speech therapy
- Basic health monitoring (including blood pressure checks and nutrition evaluation)
- Personal care (bathing, grooming, etc)
- Social activities
- Fitness opportunities to gain strength and reduce falls
- Transportation
- Counseling and support groups for caregivers
Another benefit of daycare is that it can provide additional support for daily caregivers. Seniors can stay socially active and safe in the hands of professionals while caregivers are able to catch up on errands or tend to personal events.
Related: How To Support Senior Caregivers
Skilled Nursing
Not to be confused with a nursing home, skilled nursing is for those who require high-level medical attention. This option is typically for seniors who need rehabilitation after a fall or related injury, or following an emergency room visit.
Skilled nursing is done by licensed medical professionals trained to assist your loved one along their journey to better health. They provide the needed medical attention to help seniors regain health and strength.
Seniors in skilled nursing facilities are usually there for a temporary period of time before returning home or moving into a senior living community.
Senior Living Community
Senior living communities offer an array of support services based on your needs. Communities are a popular option for seniors because they offer maintenance-free living and other amenities such as planned social events and meal services.
Levels of senior living communities typically differ by the services they provide. It’s important to note that not all communities are able to provide support that spans the continuum of care.
In general, senior living includes:
- Independent Living: Independent living offers the most autonomy, with à la carte services, such as housekeeping, typically available.
- Enhanced Living: Exclusive to StoryPoint Group communities, enhanced living is beneficial for those who are independent yet need assistance with items like medication reminders.
- Assisted Living: Assisted living offers additional support with daily tasks such as medication assistance, assistance with personal care and more. Assisted living communities are staffed with specially trained employees.
- Memory Care: Memory care is dedicated to caring for those with memory impairments and dementia.
Unsure Where To Start?
With the variety of senior care options available, it may be difficult to decide which type is the right fit. Our team at StoryPoint is here to help you find the best option! Call 1-855-407-8679 or contact a Community Specialist to determine which service may be right for you or your loved one.
