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There will come a time when you and your siblings will gather around the dinner table to talk about your parents’ living conditions. As your parents get older, their safety and their needs become your primary concerns.
It can be unsafe if they continue to live in their house with no one to look after them considering that their children are all grown and have families of their own. The most practical decision is to seek assisted living in Vernon Hills or a nursing home.
While it’s true that this decision involves a lot of emotions, sometimes you have to see beyond the emotions and be practical about it. There is always the possibility your parents will be unwilling to give up their complete independence and they might not like the idea of leaving their home where they spent most of their lifetime making memories.
But again, there will come a point where the most logical thing to do is to ask for assistance especially when it’s something you and everyone else in the family won’t be able to give.
Senior living usually offers two different types of approaches – assisted living and nursing homes. Many people use these two interchangeably believing that they are one and the same. These two aren’t the same and when you’re making a big decision such as this, it pays to be informed.
Knowing the differences will help you decide what type of facility to choose based on the level of care your parents need.
The biggest difference between assisted living and a nursing home is the level of care being offered. Assisted living is merely providing assistance to seniors with their usual daily activities. Individuals who live in assisted living facilities are still able to have as much independence as possible.
However, staff will be readily available when help is needed. Examples of daily activities that the staff is trained to help their in-house residents with include doing laundry, housekeeping, showering, dressing, and preparing meals.
Most seniors in assisted living facilities get to enjoy their own space like a private room, a condominium, or an apartment. Medical assistance will be also be available if residents need it. Assisted living facilities may have an in-house nurse or a clinic so that medical care can be provided at any given time.
The primary focus of an assisted living facility is to ensure that seniors receive the assistance they need to perform activities of daily living. Since many residents are capable of completing some tasks on their own, constant supervision is not necessary and residents can enjoy their privacy whenever they want. They can choose to socialize with other seniors only when they feel like it.
Many seniors prefer assisted living because it gives them a sense of normalcy and autonomy all while making them part of a dynamic community. It’s an experience that’s similar to being at home, so the transition won’t be that dramatic.
If your parents require care around the clock, a nursing home would be a better option for them.
Another term for a nursing home is a long-term care home. The level of care given is more complex compared to assisted living. Most of the residents in nursing homes have mental, physical, and medical needs that can only be catered to by a nursing home staff.
Nursing home staff are trained to help residents with their day-to-day activities, in addition to providing efficient medical care. Examples of the care they provide include medication management, rehabilitative care, administration of medications, and cognitive impairment management like in the case of Alzheimer’s.
If your parents require full-time care, then a nursing home would be a good place for them where they will be receiving medical care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This is highly beneficial for seniors who need to be closely watched and monitored.
When making this big decision, always include your parents in the discussion, especially if they are still mentally capable. They have to know the facts and be informed about what to expect so they feel completely on board with this next step in their life.
Assisted living facilities allow family members to freely visit residents whenever they want. Being in an assisted living facility or a nursing home will not in any way affect your family quality time, but in a nursing home, you will be asked to sign in before entering, and their visiting hours are fixed.
The amount of money needed is an important topic when deciding between assisted living and nursing homes. The cost varies depending on the location and the features and amenities of the facility. It’s wise to make calls and compare prices to help you find a facility that matches your budget.
It's always important to ask as many questions as possible so you know exactly what to expect. Don’t worry, because many facilities offer insurances and veteran’s benefits. Meanwhile, nursing homes have a fixed cost since it is government-regulated. If you don’t have the money, there will always be an available bed at a nursing home as long as the senior is eligible.
The first step to knowing where to take your parents is to have an honest discussion with them. Ask them about their wants, tell them about their needs and once you’ve figured that out, you will then know what’s the best option for your parents based on their current situation.
At Senior Living Experts, our advisors will work closely with you and your family to help you find the best place for your parents. We have been working with over 230 communities and we’ve helped hundreds of seniors live better and more comfortable lives with the array of options we offer. Call us today to learn more about assisted living and nursing homes. We’re ready to answer any questions you might have.
Not many people realize there is a difference between a nursing home and assisted living in Vernon Hills. Here's what you should know before finding the perfect home for your loved one.
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The idea of assisted living is something thatmight be a little bit frightening for elderly adults and the children that aretaking care of them. However, for many seniors, an assisted living facility isactually one of the most beneficial and nurturing environments out there.That’s because assisted living facilities are designedwith senior’s health and happiness in mind. Giving up thehome a senior has likely lived in is definitely scary, and the idea of asking aparent to move can be as well, but in the long run, there are many reasons whyassisted living is actually healthier for elderly adults.Optimal HealthCare Even if your parent has the best doctors inthe world outside of an assisted living facility, the health care that’sprovided for seniors in quality facilities is better for one reason – it’salways there when your parent needs it.It might be tough to think about, but asparent’s age, health problems tend to creep up. In emergency situations, youwant your parent to be able to receivethe care that they need right away.You also want your parent to be aroundtrained staff members who can spot health problems, allowing your parent to getthe care they need even before something goes wrong.NutritionMany seniors are no longer able to cook forthemselves for physical or safety reasons, which can lead to a lack of healthy,freshly prepared food in their life. Unfortunately, even if you prepare mealsfor your parent on a regular basis, it’s just not possible for most familymembers to prepare three meals per day and healthy snacks for seniors.However, that’s something that assisted livingfacilities can do. Quality facilities alsohave trained professionals on staff that understand the type of nutrition thatseniors need in order to stay healthy and live as active of a lifestylethat they can.In assisted living facilities, seniors alsoget to eat meals with other people their own age. Social interaction duringmeals is something many seniors miss, and that can be harmful. After all,social interaction actually helps aid in the food digestion, and on anemotional level, eating with other people has been something humans have donepretty much since the beginning of time!Friends andCompanionsWhile family members that care for elderlyparents in their homes certainly spend quality time with them, there’s reallyno replacement for friendship and companionship with adults their own age.Adults of the same age share common experiences and values, and simply beingaround people who have lived through the same things and have similarviewpoints makes a huge difference in an elderly adults life.When seniors move into assisted livingfacilities that’s one of the biggest features. Seniors can eat meals, do activities and simply haveconversations with people their own age, many of which will likely become dearfriends and companions in a very short time.The idea of assisted living can befrightening for seniors and their kids, but taking time to explore thepossibilities can show you how truly beneficial it can be. Seniors can livehappier, healthier lives in assisted facilities.If you think assisted living is right foryour parent or parents don’t be afraid to talkabout the idea.Thank you Virginia for your wonderful guest post!Virginia Cunningham is a freelance writer in Southern California. She has experienced having to discuss assisted living with others before, and knows what a great option it is. As a health writer, she contributes to the Presidio Home Care blog.
The symptoms of PTSD and dementia may be linked, according to recent studies.
Our very own expert, Kerry Quirin has an opinion on this....
"When looking for senior living, sometimes clients will ask if the rate can be reduced. Communities will run specials from time to time, so it just depends. But, clients will also ask if the level of care charge can be taken down or negotiated. At this point, I would advise a client to see a community that is willing to negotiate that fee as a red flag. The level of care fee directly affects staffing ratios. You do not want to take that fee down because it will affect the staffing. Room rent is one thing, but staff is everything. Level of care charges should never be negotiated and it is a red flag if they are."
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Psoriasis can affect anyone, but presents particular health challenges for seniors.[/caption]
With the turmoil and sporadic weather our country continues to face, it is imperative to find a home for your loved one that has an evacuation plan in place. The AARP provides a solid guideline with this article...
An Evacuation Plan at Your Parent’s Nursing Home: 9 Questions to Ask
Media images of nursing home residents being evacuated after an explosion this week at a nearby fertility plant in West, Texas, raise an important issue. That is, if your loved one is, or may some day be, in a nursing home, do you know what its evacuation and emergency plans are?
Continue reading the article HERE
Here's an article worth sharing from The Week: a look at the extensive costs of dementia...
By Keith Wagstaff | April 4, 2013
Dementia costs the United States $109 billion in direct care, according to a new study published by the New England Journal of Medicine. To put that in perspective, caring for heart disease costs about $102 billion and cancer $77 billion.
To continue reading their article click HERE
Staying fit while aging can be tricky, but so essential for a longer, happier life. The key is figuring out the best way to stay active for your body. I wanted to share what the Mayo Clinic provides for those who suffer from osteoporosis & ways to stay active while being good to your bones.
Osteoporosis is a major cause of disability in older women. So if you have osteoporosis, how can you reduce your risk of the spinal problems and broken bones that can result in loss of mobility and independence?
The answer: Exercise.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
I thought this Reuters article was interesting. We'd love to hear from caregivers who have been through this situation... Did you feel like there was a gap in communication?
By Genevra Pittman
(Reuters Health) - Although many older patients in Canada have thought about end-of-life care and discussed it with family members, a new study suggests fewer have spoken with doctors and had their wishes noted accurately in their medical record.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
Unsure of what type of environment would best suit your loved one? The Mayo Clinic can help...
Long term care is a general term used to describe various home and community-based services for adults who need help taking care of themselves.
If you're considering long term care options for yourself, a parent or another loved one, start the research and discussions early.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
I wanted to share this because it has got to be a common feeling among Caregivers. It's totally normal, but that fact doesn't help with feeling better. This article does; read it for some advise on managing those emotions...
by Barry J. Jacobs, AARP
I have a confession to make: I resent driving my 82-year-old mother to visit her husband, my demented stepfather, at the smelly, crowded and unpleasant nursing home where he now is confined. On the 20-minute ride there, I grip the steering wheel and silently seethe. I'm irritable while she and I try to have a comprehensible conversation with him. I can't wait to get out of there.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
Maybe it's denial when dementia "sneaks up" on a loved one or maybe it just takes a turn for the worst, very quickly. Either way, should you find yourself here, know you are not alone and yes, it is very difficult to decide what and how to do -- especially when you aren't the only one deciding! This AAPR article suggests hiring someone who's trained to navigate these waters and I think it's worth the money, at the very least a one hour session. You can learn a lot in an hour.
by: Sheryl Nance-Nash, from: AARP
When an aged parent needs long-term care or nears the end of life, adult siblings often argue about how to handle a loved one's care. Now, a new profession is emerging to help tamp down the tempers: the elder care mediator.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
With Spring around the corner, albeit a little further than we like at the moment, it's still good to think about getting back outside and being active! I know I've been already dreaming of this, so today we bring you a guest blogger who's main focus are seniors and wellness.
written by Andy, Patient Handling Australia
Whowould not want retirement? It means freedom. No more morning rush hours, reportdeadlines, work pressures and taunting faces of superiors. Another good thingis that retired people nowadays live longer and stay active. Retiring is notanymore about rocking chairs or watching TV. People already know the importanceof staying physically active in health and wellness. It is fortunate to haveplenty of ways to stay active at retirement. The following are just five of them.
Mindyour health by engaging in an active hobby that you are interested about andcould keep you physically and mentally moving. Either you go for a sport thatyou have been passionate about or join a photography class or group naturewalks. The activities you enjoy would take away boredom. Doing so would be goodfor your health and because it is something that you love doing, it would beeasy. Then you shall have longer years to pursue your passion.
Ifyou have just been an office body all those working years, it is great toexplore the outdoors this time. You will feel great inner joy. Find a nearbyfitness or nature trail during the morning to walk in for exercise whileenjoying the tranquility and beauty of nature. Watch the sun come up and savorfresh air. Outdoor recreational activities can be fun like hiking, tennis orminiature golf. You may also start a backyard garden. Watching your plants growwould be very inspiring and fulfilling.
Theremust be places that you dream of visiting. Now is the opportune time asretirement is a chance to see the world. Visit a favorite place each year.Travel hubs that will keep you moving are better. Join “adventure” vacationsthat let you try kayaking or canoeing. Visit the beaches for a swim and walkalong the shorelines. Have a spa vacation or maybe a fitness retreat where youcan do exercise, join yoga classes, eat nutritious food and get pampered.
Beclose friends with active people and plan outings. Having the same outlook, youmay agree and enjoy bowling, croquet and golf together. Even playing insomebody else’ back yard can already be fun. Being with active and positivepeople is encouraging and motivating to keep up with staying fit and healthy.
Picka cause you are passionate about and volunteer to be of service to that cause.For example, you may volunteer walking dogs of the humane society at yourlocality or help at an animal shelter. If you can do carpentry works or aregood at handling nails and a hammer, utilize them by building or repairing somehomes through Global Village or Habitat for Humanity. Volunteering for a causenot only is being active in the community but also mind-challenging and helpingothers. It is good for both the body and spirit.
Andyis an active blogger in the senior and aged care community, where hecontributed numerous articles. Aside from blogging, Andy distributes rollators and walking frames as well as a wide range of aged care products.
These are never easy discussions, but it's always better to have a plan in place. The Mayo Clinic helps you understand what you need to think about for yourself & as Caregivers, ask your loved one so you'll one day be better prepared.
Living wills and other advance directives describe your preferences regarding treatment if you're faced with a serious accident or illness. These legal documents speak for you when you're not able to speak for yourself — for instance, if you're in a coma.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
Now that we're into March, April is that much closer. While we no doubt welcome Spring, here in Chicago, the dreaded tax deadline can make people cringe; evenmoreso if you're a Caregiver. Fear not, the AAPR sheds light on some tax-related questions.
Have a great weekend and don't forget to set the clock forward on Saturday night! Woohoo!
Learn what to do to save money, qualify for some federal breaks
by Judi Hasson, AARP
If you're paying all or part of the cost of caring for a parent or another relative, you may qualify for some federal tax breaks. And who couldn't use the extra money?
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
Are you a younger Caregiver? I wanted the share this Chicago Tribune article on the expierence of one young woman who made the decision to be closer to home to help out. It also provides tips to help you balance being young & caregiving.
January 25, 2013|Carolyn Bigda
When Leah Drew started a mater's degree in French in 2005, she was 22. But that summer, she, along with her younger sister and father, received dreaded news: her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and would eventually need round-the-clock care.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
I wanted to show how helping a Caregiver can be quite simple, if you know the right things to say. These helpful tips from the Mayo Clinic gives you a roadmap for effective helping!
Alzheimer's caregivers need all the support they can get. If you know someone who's caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease, here's how to help...
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
Have you guys seen this movie? I haven't, but a friend was still reeling from it hours after she saw it this past weekend. That combined with this article makes me want to see it. Crazy I know, but I'm intrigued...
By PAULA SPAN
It has been a few days since I left the movie theater in a bit of a daze, and I’m still thinking about “Amour.”
So much of this already much-honored film rings utterly true: the way a long-married Parisian couple’s daily routines, their elegant life of books and music and art, can be upended in a moment.
To coninue reading the entire article click HERE
The AARP provides helpful information on what not to ignore when it come to legs cramps...
by: Dr. Armon B. Neel Jr. | from: AARP
The older you are, the more likely you are to get nighttime leg cramps — sudden jolts of pain that can last from just a few seconds to 15 or more minutes. Some studies, in fact, suggest that more than two-thirds of older people have experienced these painful cramps.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
I wanted to help inspire us all to stay healthy with this AARP article...
by Julia Bencomo Lobaco, AARP, December 21, 2012
Apples contain soluble fiber, which may help lower cholesterol and slow the uptake of glucose, helping you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. They're also a super source of potassium, antioxidants and vitamin C.
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
New Old Age provides a closer look...
By PAULA SPAN
I’ve often wondered why more families don’t call hospice when a loved one has a terminal disease — and why people who do call wait so long, often until death is just days away.
To continue rading the entire article click HERE
Another helpful list from Caring.com
Try these simple solutions to ease the crankies and boost everyone's mood.
By Lara Belonogoff, Caring.com staff writer
One issue that family caregivers don't often talk about is how cranky everyone can get living under one roof -- especially if the person you're caring for is sometimes or often cranky. You know the toll that it can take on the entire household -- and how that person's mood can rub off on you. But how do you go about making your home a happier place?
To continue reading the entire article click HERE
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Your expert advisor will accumulate information necessary for proper placement, such as your needs, location, and budget.
We provide numerous recommendations based on the details provided. Our goal is to combine your needs with our knowledge of senior communities.
Your advisor will accompany you on tours so your search can be as thorough as possible. We want what’s best for your loved ones just as much as you do.
After a choice has been made and your loved one has moved into their new home, we will continuously check in to make sure everything is going well.
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Together, let’s begin the journey to finding the home that will enhance the life of your family.
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