Assisted Elderly Care – What Are the Major Things to Consider?

By Jared Wright

The longer older people can stay independent and care for themselves, the better. There, however, comes a time when living alone becomes a problem and sometimes it can even become dangerous.

People suffering from illnesses and memory loss can become dangerous to themselves. They might forget to lock doors or wander off and can't find their way back home. An elderly person might suffer a stroke and can't get to a telephone to call for help.

It is seldom easy to convince the elderly that they need assistance and can't stay on their own anymore. Where the husband and wife are still both alive and together, it might be possible to stay on their own for a longer period of time, providing at least one of them is still strong and of sound mind. On the other hand, if the one spouse is ill and needs special care it might become difficult for the other elderly spouse to provide this care.

Children and families that are faced with this concern have a few options to consider.

Caregiver

Caregivers are the preferred and easiest option for elder people, most of the time. It will allow them to stay in their own homes without too much disruption in their lives. They still feel more independent and can be in a familiar environment. Caregivers, however, don't come cheap. If the elderly, family members or children can afford this kind of help, you will find it is much easier to convince them to accept this rather than trying to get them to move into a facility for the elderly.

Living With a Child or Family Member

Some elderly people are more open to this kind of move, than to move to an old age facility. This is not always the best option for the child or family member, though. The person who will be responsible for the elderly person must want do it. It will be a time consuming task that needs to be done with lots of love and patience. It is also a big responsibility that cannot be forced on anyone.

Old Age Facilities

Assisted Care or a nursing home will be the other option. The elderly person should be part of this decision and it is important that they go somewhere where they can still have a quality life. Many of these facilities organize special outings and events for the elderly. They will also be living with other people of the same age who will have the same interests.

It is important that the decision includes all the stake-holders and that everybody's concerns and well-being is taken into consideration.

Jared Wright loves to write and share his experience with people online. One of his many new interests and websites is about sharing reviews sure as used wheel chairs and wheel chair cushion on his site.

3 Responses

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  2. More than anything, I really would consider their feelings on how they are coping up with the aging process. It can be very hard to accept especially for some who were very active in their youth.
  3. Caring for Aging Parents
    Good advice. It's important to mention that there are different levels of senior housing: independent, assisted, skilled nursing (also called residential care/complex care, and other names depending on where you live) and all 3 at the same location called continuing care retirement communities. My advice is plan ahead and tour different housing options/home support options. Educate both yourself and your loved ones about the options. If needed, hire expert advice such as a geriatric care manager. Many communities have waiting lists so get on the list early, before they need to move. Kevin
  4. I believe that starting the conversation early with a parent or loved one is key. Educating a senior on their choices when they are able to understand the different options can help smooth the process. In addition having a plan for progressive care, should it be required is essential.