Home care services provide seniors with individual attention and help them maintain their independence, helping to avoid hospitalizations while saving families money.
Visiting nurses provide medical services that include checking vitals and managing medications. In addition, they offer social activities and transportation.
Assisted living
Assisted living facilities provide 24-hour care for seniors who need assistance with daily tasks but do not require the higher level of attention offered by nursing homes. Many such communities feature alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as well as disaster plans and secure entry.
Residents can enjoy all-inclusive dining at their residence, featuring nutritionally-balanced and well-rounded meals that can either be found in the main dining room or delivered directly to their apartments.
The Assisted Living Program provides financial assistance for persons with limited income and assets, to pay for personal care services and room and board in participating residences. Individuals interested in becoming eligible should speak to a Medicaid planning specialist regarding their options.
Senior communities
An older adult community provides a homelike setting where residents with different interests and lifestyles can live together in peace while looking out for each other. Furthermore, it offers access to activities designed to boost socialization and wellbeing.
Finding the appropriate senior living option can be a difficult challenge, with so many choices available. Knowing some basics will help narrow your choices down more efficiently.
As many seniors fear moving into retirement communities due to stereotypical portrayals in films and TV, many may worry that such places have not changed over time, providing a comfortable place for you to enjoy your retirement and focus on the things that matter most in life. Modern facilities offer comfortable facilities where residents can live their retirement with minimal interruption from everyday tasks or worries.
Enriched housing
Enriched housing communities offer seniors who require assistance with daily living activities a cost-effective and social solution, including meals and transportation to appointments. Many senior housing programs also have on-site support services that can be utilized when needed.
Adult homes and enriched housing programs in New York State are licensed by the Department of Health to provide long-term residential care, including room and board, housekeeping services, personal assistance and supervision. They may be privately run, publically funded or not-for-profit establishments.
Home-sharing provides another alternative, pairing hosts and guests (at least one must be over 60) together in mutually beneficial arrangements. Applicants must meet certain income criteria in order to be eligible, though some long-term care insurance policies cover this service.
Family-type homes
Family-style homes provide seniors in need of assistance with daily tasks who do not require the full range of care available at nursing facilities a safe and comfortable living space, including meals and activities. In addition, these homes allow families to visit as frequently as desired without incurring extra charges for caregiving duties.
Home care can be an invaluable way to support the independence, social engagement, and overall health of an older loved one while giving family caregivers much-needed respite and recovery time.
No matter the task at hand – bathing or transportation to medical appointments – home care offers a flexible solution. Caregivers offer comfort, familiarity and stability of their own home while offering tailored care services for a more holistic approach to senior care.
Nursing homes
For loved ones who require 24-hour care, nursing homes provide excellent options. Their safety is ensured and access to medical services provided when required. In addition, housekeeping and meals services help reduce loneliness while stimulating cognitive functions.
When it comes to choosing a nursing home, seek advice and recommendations from family and friends. Your hospital discharge planner or social worker may also recommend suitable homes. Also check with your state long-term care ombudsman for guidance and advocacy services.
Nursing homes differ from board and care homes in that they provide both personal care as well as skilled nursing services. Most offer various activities designed to keep residents physically and mentally active, as well as outdoor spaces and visiting rooms to allow residents to socialize freely among themselves.