Over the next 40 years, the number of Americans over 65 is set to jump to 95 million individuals. The increase in the older population will continue to drive demand for care facilities. The health and physical needs of an aging population vary greatly. You may have a loved one dealing with cognitive decline in addition to the physical deterioration that accompanies growing older. Elderly patients deserve to receive the best care possible in their final years, though knowing what facility to choose for their needs can be a difficult job. Here are some of the primary types of senior housing options available.
Independent Living
Individuals over the age of 55 who don’t require much assistance may find an independent living facility most conducive to their needs. The housing types may vary, as some communities have small freestanding homes, while others provide more condo-style accommodations. The layout and environment are generally easier to navigate, are more compact, and require little home maintenance. These facilities promote independence for residents while offering meal services and light housekeeping.
With these communities, residents are often entertained with several activities, services, and amenities located on the property. Common use areas provide socialization, and management often includes hobbies, movie nights, or continuing education opportunities. The grounds usually have plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature and be outdoors, whether through picnic areas, or walking tracks. Many independent living facilities also have a beauty or barber salon, housekeeping, and laundry services.
This option benefits those who have yet to experience the significant mobility or cognitive challenges associated with aging. These environments allow individuals to enjoy independent living for as long as possible while surrounded by peers and medical professionals. Caring Places Management has only one community that provides Independent Living services located in McCleary, WA.
Assisted Living
When full independence can’t be given, but minimal help is required, an assisted living facility may be the best choice. Assisted living provides personal care services and help with housekeeping, cooking meals, medication management, toileting, traveling to appointments, and social interaction. Individuals who don’t need round-the-clock supervision or medical care can thrive in these environments.
These communities are generally self-contained, with apartment-style living for residents. The rooms may have a small kitchenette in them, in addition to a personal bathroom. The community will have a group dining option and large common areas where recreational and social activities are held for residents. This residence option provides 24hr support and care, whether it be non-medical or an emergency.
An Assisted Living environment is structured to promote resident health and wellness. Caring Places Communities offer an extensive Life Enrichment Program allowing residents to engage in a variety of activities including exercise. Transportation arrangements can be made, medication management is available, and laundry and housekeeping services are provided. Caring for a loved one can cause a significant amount of stress and create tension in family relationships. Assisted Living is an excellent option for those who need more help than the family can provide at home on a consistent basis or for those experiencing ‘caregiver burnout’.
Memory Care Facility
Individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s may struggle to maintain independence, and the nature of the disease may make it harder for a caregiver to provide the right care. A memory care facility provides an atmosphere similar to that of an assisted living complex, but with a focus on elements impacted by memory loss. Safety, security, and behavioral issues are often the reason a family chooses to place their loved one in a Memory Care community. Seniors suffering from memory loss often wander and in doing so can cause significant safety risks to themselves and others. Behavioral issues related to memory loss can become overwhelming. Some patients become easily agitated, aggressive, or physical and lash out at their caregivers.
In our Memory Care communities, residents may have a private or semi-private room, as well as access to meals in the main dining room and recreational or exercise activities in common areas. The hallways and facilities are clearly labeled to assist with navigation and promote safe wandering.
The activities in a memory care facility are designed to stimulate residents both cognitively and physically, as these are two areas of concern for individuals dealing with dementia-related conditions. Therapies may include both cognitive and physical aspects, and settings or stations around the facility can allow residents to practice or strengthen life skills that may be slipping. Residents are carefully monitored for medical conditions that may impact their memory loss, and medication is overseen and administered.
Caring Places communities provide many different levels of care based on the individual needs of each resident. Care provided may include assistance as simple as support with daily tasks up to the highest level of care including hospice. Unless there is a significant medical event or the need for skilled services which we are not licensed to provide, residents can stay in an assisted living or memory care community up until the end of life.
Nursing Home
Although Caring Places Management does not operate any nursing homes it is important to understand the differences in care types. The highest level of care is provided through a nursing home or skilled care facility. Individuals who are unable to care for themselves and need around the clock medical assistance receive a full range of aid in these settings. A licensed physician oversees each patient’s care, and there are always nurses or medical professionals on-site. Activities and events are still held to engage residents with one another. This is the best option for individuals who need a lot of medical attention.
The Right Choice for Your Loved Ones
If you or a loved one are transitioning into the next phase of life, these are four possible care options. Medical needs should be the foremost consideration in choosing a facility and care type, but the individual’s safety, freedom, and emotional wellness should be the next priorities. At Caring Places Management, our mission is ‘exceeding expectations in loving, thoughtful care’. Caring Places is able to provide exceptional care and service in our home-like communities by our dedicated and skilled staff members. Which of our Caring Places can you call home?
