Many seniors will require care at an assisted living facility or nursing home.
It is difficult for adult children to watch their parents age.
The people who cared for them throughout their lives will soon require care.
The roles will be reversed.
While aging parents may currently be capable of living independently at home with minimal support from their children, they may require higher levels of care in the future.
Both assisted living facilities and nursing homes offer support that exceeds what many families can provide personally.
When choosing the best facility for yourself or your loved one, it is important to understand the levels of support and costs related to your options for nursing homes or assisted living
Seniors who require memory care or support for other chronic illnesses often benefit from a nursing home rather than an assisted living facility.
While there are many similarities between assisted living facilities and nursing homes, they do not offer identical levels of care or services.
Assisted living facilities provide personal care for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing, or taking medication.
Residents of these communities will have semi-private or private apartments, but will also enjoy shared activities, meals, and social opportunities.
Assisted living facilities are for those who require minimal medical intervention or supervision.
Nursing homes are facilities where individuals with more complex medical issues can receive this support.
Nursing homes provide rehabilitative services, skilled nursing care, and 24-hour medical care.
When might nursing homes be necessary?
These facilities are best for those dealing with chronic illness, recovering from surgery, or needing memory care for advanced dementia.
The cognitive and physical health of your loved one will be key factors when selecting the best fit.
You should consider their current health as well as the likely progression of their limitations.
Medication schedules, mobility challenges, and health conditions will impact the care required.
Especially for those with health conditions like memory loss or diabetes, the services needed from these facilities will increase over time.
To address these issues, it can be beneficial to find a facility that can adapt to changes over time.
Personally touring the facilities and speaking with current residents and staff can give a clearer picture of what it would be like to live there.
Asking about how emergencies are handled, how individualized care plans are created, and what medical professionals are on-site can give you greater insight and peace of mind.
You can also request to inspect records and clarify costs.
Assisted living facilities and nursing homes can be expensive.
Although assisted living facilities are often more affordable than nursing homes, the costs can still be high.
How do people pay for these services?
Medicare generally does not cover services, so people tend to pay out of pocket, with veterans benefits, or with long-term care insurance.
Individuals who meet the income and asset eligibility requirements may be eligible for Medicaid coverage of their costs.
Because the costs and coverage for assisted living vary by state, you may benefit from working with an experienced estate planning attorney or elder law attorney in navigating how to prepare for these expenses.
Seniors should not be moved without their knowledge or consent.
Families should communicate clearly and compassionately about any decisions to transition from independent living.
In addition, aging loved ones should be asked about their preferences, included in tours, and involved in the decision-making process.
Having agency in the process can make the transition easier and better.
Ultimately, you will want to find a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for your loved ones.
You should choose the environment with the appropriate level of care for your loved ones.
When a facility can adapt to increased and changing needs, it will be able to support your loved ones through various stages.
Understanding payment options enables you to prepare accordingly for the costs associated with residential facilities.
Do not decide without seeing the place.
It is essential to meet with staff, observe their activities, and clarify the services and costs.
The senior should be included in the decision-making process, if able to participate at any level.
Period.
My personal and professional recommendation for families facing this process in the Greater Kansas City Metropolitan area?
Contact Steve Kuker of Senior Care Consulting.
Steve knows the ins and outs of every senior care option at every level of care, and I can vouch for his integrity.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice on any specific issue or problem. Nothing herein creates an attorney-client relationship between Harvest Law KC and the reader.
Reference: National Institute on Aging (Oct. 12, 2023) “How to Choose a Nursing Home or Other Long-Term Care Facility”
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