For most people, there comes a time in life when they need long-term care. This type of care is for later stages in life when individuals may struggle with health issues or natural declination in physical abilities and require extra help to handle daily needs.
It is a common misconception that long-term care only refers to putting a person into a nursing home. There are actually many other options available.
In-home service can maintain independence
For someone who is simply struggling due to naturally slowing down or minor physical limitations, in-home care can be a great alternative to a nursing home. Providers come into the home to offer services ranging from grocery shopping and laundry to providing companionship and medication reminders. The benefit is seniors stay in their homes and retain their independence.
Senior housing could provide extra care
Senior housing provides a nursing-home adjacent option. They are mainly like individual condos where a person can live on their own independently. However, they also have access to on-call medical services if needed. This can be a great option for a senior who needs more access to care but does not need constant care.
Family can step in to help
In some cases, seniors are lucky enough to have family who can help them. They may be able to have a child move in with them or have someone close by who is able to provide care as needed.
In most alternative situations, a person is not medically compromised to the point where being alone would introduce serious safety issues. However, many seniors find these are a great long-term care option over going to a nursing home.