October is National Long-Term Care Planning Month, a perfect time to have open conversations with loved ones about present and future care needs. According to LongTermCare.gov, most people in the U.S. turning 65 will need some form of long-term care during their lives. As you age, you may need assistance with daily living due to chronic health conditions, disabilities or living arrangements that do not accommodate your needs.
Planning ahead now when you are healthy gives you and your family time to research services and care options in your area to determine what kind of care would allow you to thrive. Having a concrete plan in place will give you peace of mind and allow you to transition to the care you need seamlessly in the future.
Discover the Long-Term Care Options that Will Help You Live Your Best Life
There are many options for long-term care available depending on the level of care you require and your personal preferences.
Staying in Your Comfort Zone: In Home Care
In home care allows you to remain in the cozy and familiar setting of your own home, while receiving services to help with daily tasks and medical needs such as:
- Help with housekeeping, cooking, bathing and dressing.
- Medical care and equipment and assistance with prescription medications.
- Transportation services to medical appointments if you are unable to drive.
Giving Caregivers a Break: Respite Care Provides Short-Term Relief
If your caregivers are family members, they often have many additional responsibilities such as work and childcare. Respite care allows them to take care of those responsibilities and receive a break for their own self-care, while having peace of mind that you are receiving excellent care.
Respite care can take different forms such as:
- Daytime care programs that offer medical and personal care assistance and socialization.
- Short-term 24/7 care when caregivers are out of town or unable to provide care.
When Home is Not an Option: Finding a Senior Care Community Where You Can Thrive
Sometimes it’s not possible for you to remain in your home or to live with your family. In these cases, a senior community may be the best choice. There are a variety of options available depending on the level of care you require:
- Assisted living communities allow you to have your own room or apartment so you can create a homey environment while also receiving assistance with medications, bathing and dressing if needed.
- Memory care communities offer specialized care for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease to keep residents safe, happy and engaged.
- Skilled nursing communities provide around-the-clock medical care and assistance with feeding, bathing, dressing, getting in and out of bed and other activities.
At Trio Healthcare facilities, we can help you and your family create a personalized long-term care plan that fits your needs, whether for short-term care and rehabilitation therapy services, long-term care, memory care or respite services. We offer an environment that helps our patients and residents live their best life at any age. For more information, contact a location near you.