1) Determine what level of care is needed.
Evaluation by a nurse specializing in geriatrics, such as Debbie Bernacki of Happier At Home., Geriatric Physicians, Geriatric Care Managers often can use a tool called a PRI to see if they are assisted living or nursing home ready.
2) What are the living options for seniors and how do they differ?
- Remaining home with assistance by Companion Care Company:
Services: Cannot provide hands on care or set up medications but can provide light housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, medication reminders, companionship, monitoring bathing and dressing for safety. (Senior may attend a Day Program)
Payment Options: Private pay, long term care insurance or veterans’ benefits.
- Independent Living Facilities:
Services: Senior communities that have apartments with the benefit of socialization, activities within the facility. Senior must be independent in all aspects, or enlisting the help of a company or others for help with what they are not independent in.
Payment Options: Private pay, long term care insurance.
- There is a security deposit or entrance fees and the requirements for showing your assets and financial information varies with each facility.
- Assisted Living Facilities:
Services: Senior community where the senior must be able to ambulate and transfer but may need some assistance with bathing, dressing, etc. Some have special Memory Care Units for those with Dementia or Alzheimer’s issues.
Payment: can be private pay, long term care insurance or veterans’ benefits.
- There is a security deposit or entrance fees and the requirements for showing your assets and financial information varies with each facility.
- Nursing Home/ Skilled Nursing Facilities:
Services: For those with greater needs which may include transferring assistance or being bed bound, wound care or any ailment that requires skilled nursing care.
Payment: Private pay, long term care insurance, Medicaid or veterans’ benefits.
- Typically require financials for three years and want to see that they can private pay for at least a 1 year stay. Some facilities make the senior relocate after their money is gone and do not take Medicaid.
