Assisted Living Alternatives: 8 Care Options to Consider
If you need help caring for an aging loved one, an assisted living facility is likely the first solution that comes to mind. While these facilities play important roles in elder care, they are far from the only option. Here are eight alternatives to assisted living.
- Non-Medical In-Home Care Services
- Respite Care
- Adult Day Care Centers
- Independent Living Communities
- Adult Family Homes
- Medical Alert Systems
- Home Health Care
- Family Caregiving
Non-Medical In-Home Care Services
Non-Medical in-home care services allow seniors to receive assistance with daily activities within the comfort of their own homes. These services can be adapted to address the limitations of your loved one. For example, a nonmedical services provider can help with things such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Meal preparation
- Housecleaning
- Transportation to appointments
- Companionship
Nonmedical in-home services are a good fit for individuals who don’t require medical support but need a little help with day-to-day tasks. Your loved one will get to stay in their home and remain in familiar surroundings, which can enhance their quality of life.
Respite Care
Many caregivers consider assisted living facilities when they feel overwhelmed with the responsibilities of providing for an elderly loved one. That is completely understandable. Taking care of an aging parent or family member is a lot of work, especially if that person has a serious medical condition.
If you want to keep caring for your loved one but simply need a little break, respite care can be a great option. Respite care offers temporary relief for primary caregivers. You can arrange care for as little as a few hours to as long as several weeks. Use this service to recharge and address some of your personal needs.
Adult Day Care Centers
Adult day care centers offer structured programs during daytime hours for seniors who require supervision. These programs not only help keep your loved one safe but also provide them with opportunities to socialize.
Along with basic care like meals and medication management, an adult day care center might offer therapeutic activities. Some centers also attend to more extensive healthcare needs.
You could enroll your loved one in an adult day care facility while you go to work. However, make sure you thoroughly vet the center before you take your loved one there. There are some great options, but not all facilities attend to every type of need.
Independent Living Communities
Independent living communities are built for older adults who are generally self-sufficient but desire a setting with access to amenities and social activities. These communities typically offer landscaping and housekeeping services as part of the rent. Your loved one will also have a chance to engage with others their age in various social activities and events.
Additionally, independent living communities typically include built-in safety provisions and emergency response systems. These systems can provide you and your loved one with peace of mind while ensuring they maintain a high level of independence.
Adult Family Homes
Adult family homes are residential homes licensed to provide care for a small number of seniors. They offer a more personalized setting compared to larger facilities. The cozy, homelike environment creates a family-like atmosphere. Caregivers are also able to provide more individualized support due to the lower number of residents.
Medical Alert Systems
Seniors who are mostly independent but concerned about safety may need a medical alert system. These devices allow your loved one to call for help in emergencies, such as a slip and fall in the bathroom.
Medical alert systems are typically cost-effective and easy to use. They ensure your loved one can get help at the push of a button while allowing them to maintain their independence.
Home Health Care
Home health care services involve medical professionals (usually registered nurses) who provide skilled care at your loved one’s home. Physical therapists and LPNs may also assist with home health.
This option is better for seniors with medical needs that can be managed at home. It can be more affordable for your loved one than living in a nursing facility full-time. It also eliminates the need for transportation to medical facilities, which reduces the burden on you.
Family Caregiving
As a family member, you can take on the role of primary caregiver for your aging loved ones. Directly overseeing your loved one’s care is the best way to know they are treated right and attended to like they deserve.
While it can be rewarding, it’s important to recognize the challenges associated with being a long-term caregiver for an aging adult. Seek support when needed and use services like respite care to give yourself a well-deserved break from time to time.
What’s Right for Your Loved One?
There aren’t any one-size-fits-all options when it comes to caring for older adults. Consider your loved one’s unique health challenges and care needs, as well as their level of independence. If your elderly family member is in good cognitive health, involve them in the conversation and find out what level of care would be the best fit for them.
If you or your family member is considering in-home care as part of a plan to age in place, contact Family Matters In-Home Care today for a free consultation. Our team is dedicated to supporting your family and helping older adults enjoy life in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.
Some of the services offered by Family Matter In-Home Care include: Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care, Bed & Wheelchair Transfer Assistance, Companionship, Housekeeping & Meal Preparation, Personal Care, Recovery Care, and Transportation.
Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater San Diego, Family Matter In-Home Care has offices throughout California.
