Finding the most fitting senior care option is extremely important so older adults can get the health support they need while enjoying their best quality of life. Because there are so many choices out there, it may feel overwhelming trying to find the option that best fits your needs. Every senior health option offers different levels of care and amenities, which can get confusing, especially when considering them all at once. The end goal, however, is to find an option that acts as a solution to a personal health need—no matter what that health need may be. This blog will provide an overview of the most common senior care options and some tips on how to navigate making this choice.
Understanding Senior Care Options
Senior care options cover a wide range of services for older adults, designed to include both in-home and facility-based care, depending on preference and need. In-home care involves professionals coming directly to your home to help with daily tasks, medical procedures, and/or companionship. For example, in-home care may have a professional help you wash your dishes and do your laundry, administer your insulin for diabetes, and/or keep you company while you eat dinner. Facility-based care, on the other hand, involves living in a community or center where professional support is available at all times. This can range from basic assistance to full-time nursing care.
Seniors and/or their caregivers should research the different care options available and assess their current needs and preferences to make a smart choice. By exploring many options, families can find the right fit, keeping their loved ones comfortable, safe, and happy, all while meeting their health needs.
Home Care Options for Seniors
There are a few common types of home care options that seniors can choose from depending on their needs, including:
- In-Home Care [1]: Professional caregivers will come to your home to help you with basic tasks, medical needs, and/or companionship. Whether you need help with your chores, require someone to help you organize and administer your medication, or just feel lonely and want someone to keep you company, in-home care professionals have you covered.
- Assisted Living [2]: Though commonly confused with nursing homes, assisted living communities allow seniors to feel independent while still getting the support they need. Assisted living communities are typically apartment or townhouse-style living spaces, where residents have private or shared spaces but have access to on-site assistance with tasks, medication management, and emergency needs. Assisted living communities often provide opportunities and shared spaces for social activities, like group meals and game nights.
- Nursing Homes [3]: This is the highest level of care for seniors who may require extra medical attention and support. This type of facility is staffed 24 hours a day with doctors and nurses, in case of emergency health issues or conditions that require continuous care.
Making the Right Choice
To find the senior care option that works best for you, make sure to assess your health needs/goals and lifestyle preferences. Do you prefer lots of social engagement, or do you prefer to stay more independent? Do you struggle with completing your daily tasks? Do you find the security of living in a community with healthcare professionals comforting? Knowing the answers to these questions on personal preference and health needs is important before you commit to a care option. Additionally, it is recommended that you compare the costs of the options you are considering with your current financial situation and budget. It may be helpful to make a chart of all your options and their costs, so you can see it mapped out in front of you.
Healthcare professionals are here to help you, so use their vast insight to your advantage! Consulting with healthcare providers, care managers, and financial advisors is important for making the right decision about your health care. Your doctor can provide insight on the level of medical attention you require, which may help you choose between in-home care vs assisted living or nursing home facility. Care managers can help you weigh your preferences and figure out which living situation would make you the happiest, while still caring for your physical health. Finally, financial advisors help you understand the costs of care, and how this may fit into your budget.
Senior Care Options at Greater Good Health
At Greater Good Health, we focus on providing care that is senior-focused, proactive, empathetic, accessible, and holistic. We are committed to offering you quality care in a variety of ways, including primary care, preventative care, chronic care management, and care coordination. Contact us today, and together, we can work towards meeting your health needs and goals!