The Difference Between Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes
When it comes to finding the perfect assisted living facility (ALF) there are several things that you need to consider. Assisted living gives the senior the ability to live a more normal lifestyle. They are able to do activities, live independent lives, going out with friends etc.
This is very different from living in a nursing home where they must be cared for on a constant basis and are not permitted to leave the area without the help of an aide or relative. Usually Assistant Living Communities are an intermediate between living independently and being cared for on a 24-hour basis.
Several Important Points to Consider When Selecting the Right Assisted Living Community or Facility
When you are looking for an Assisted Living Community, you need to look for several things that will make the living arrangement both pleasant and affordable. You want to make sure that the Assisted Living Community is close to your family and friends. You are not leaving your life behind instead; you are embracing life in a brand new community.
You want to make sure that the Assisted Living housing area has all of the amenities that you had in your own home like a kitchen with refrigerator, microwaves, etc. You want your bedroom to be large enough and very comfortable for you to rest when you need too. You should check to see if the facility offers opportunities for you to socialize with others in the community and if you are permitted to bring in your own family and friends for social events.
One of the major reasons that most seniors seek out Assisted Living Communities is because they need medical help with taking their medications or in case of an accident, they will not have to worry about getting immediate help. You should check out the facility to make sure that the staff has medical training and is capable of meeting your needs. This is very vital in selecting the Assisted Living Community that is best for the senior in your family.
Finally yet importantly is the cost behind moving to an Assisted Living Community. You need to make sure that the facility is not too expensive for the income of the senior. Several things come into consideration such as will your medical insurance cover all of the medications that you need or will you need part of your income for medications. The food that you eat will be provided by the facility or they will be buying your own food. You need to have a list of what is covered at the Assisted Living Community so you can determine if this is an affordable way of life.
Assisted Living at Home
Today it is very possible for seniors to stay at home and still receive assisted living help from local groups and organizations. One of the main functions that you will find for healthier lifestyle at home is getting someone to come into your home and help you with your baths and other personal needs. Modern technology has made it possible for seniors to take their medication on time by wearing a bracelet that will beep or vibrate when the medication is due.
Modern Technology is a Big Help For Seniors
Modern technology has become very helpful to our seniors because you can be assisted living in your home with the use of a few gadgets. The availability of fully electric hospital beds make it easy for seniors to make adjustments to the bed all by themselves. You now can wear a necklace or wrist watch that when you push a button emergency help will come immediately. Seniors who live alone fear falling without being able to get up. There are security systems that will warn you if there is an intruder, house fire, or other major problems around your home but the same system will also bring you help from emergency services like fire, police, or ambulance.
Nursing for the Elderly
There are private health care systems that provide nursing help for those who need assisted living help in their own homes. A nurse will come to your home and help with such things as giving you an insulin shot, changing bandages, oxygen tanks and more. These health care services are readily available and many times are paid for by Medicare or your private insurance carrier. If you have any issues be sure to consult a Medicare Fraud Attorney.
Professional House Cleaning
Then for those who are not able to clean their homes thoroughly there are private maid services, where you can have someone come in and do the cleaning for you at a very reasonable price. The maids will clean your bathroom, kitchen, and other living spaces. They do the mopping, scrubbing, vacuum etc. This is not expensive to have done but is not covered by insurance. There are multiple resources to help with assisted living in your home. Some of those resources provide volunteers that will come in and help you with cleaning your home.
Providing the right environment and care for our loved ones is very important. The good news is there are lots of options to consider.