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Choosing Between Assisted Living or In-Home Care

Important Considerations for Seniors and Their Families

When is the right time for seniors to leave their homes? This is one of the hardest—and certainly one of the most emotional—decisions that a senior and his or her loved ones can face. For many, the choice ultimately becomes whether to move to an assisted living facility or age at home with the help of in-home care. While many seniors would prefer to remain in their homes, it may not be the safest choice or the right decision for the family as a whole.

The Difference Between Assisted Living and In-Home Care

First, it is important to understand the difference between living in an assisted living community or receiving in-home care. An assisted living facility is designed for those seniors who need minimal assistance with daily living (such as bathing or dressing) and care in order to live independently. In addition to care support and medical services, residents also have access to many educational, physical, and social activities within the assisted living community.

The obvious difference between assisted living and in-home care is that, when receiving in-home care, an individual continues to live in their home. To receive in-home care, an individual’s needs are first evaluated by healthcare professionals to determine his or her eligibility. A home care professional will then come to the individual’s home to provide assistance with daily living tasks as well as address and provide treatment for chronic health issues or medical conditions.

Questions for Seniors and Their Families to Consider

We recommend that seniors and their families consult with an experienced social worker as well as thoroughly research assisted living options close to home. As you work through your decision, consider these key questions:

  • How much care do you need? In-home care varies depending on your specific needs. For example, some seniors may have an in-home caregiver visit one or two days a week for several hours, or they may have care 40+ hours a week.

  • How do you intend to fund your care? The answer to whether in-home care will be more or less expensive than assisted living will be determined by a number of factors. One factor is the number of hours and days of in-home care you anticipate needing to meet your needs. Discuss how you plan to fund your care, such as drawing from personal savings or contributions from family members.

  • Is it getting more difficult for you to live at home? When daily tasks such as house cleaning or maintaining your lawn become harder and harder to accomplish, you may benefit more from an assisted living environment. Also, consider whether your personal safety is at an increased risk the longer you continue to live at home.

  • Do you desire a continuum of care within your community? One significant advantage of choosing to move to an assisted living facility is that, in many cases, there are other senior living options on the same campus. As your needs change, you can maintain a continuity of care in a familiar setting within your community.

Key Benefits of Choosing Assisted Living Instead of In-Home Care

When you decide to enter an assisted living facility, you will experience many benefits, including:

  • A safe, comfortable living environment

  • Ability to live independently with the security of having care services available if needed

  • Ability to remain on-campus as your needs change to ensure continuity of care

  • Peace of mind for you and your loved ones

Remember that when a senior chooses in-home care, family members are often those responsible for coordinating those services as well as responding to emergency situations when the in-home care provider is unavailable. When a loved one enters an assisted living community, a significant burden is taken off of his or her family’s shoulders. This allows seniors and their families to simply enjoy their time together.

If you have questions about McGregor Assisted Living and the assisted living experience in general, we would be happy to speak with you. Please reach out at any time.

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Information for this article was sourced from:

DailyCaring

Aging.com