Find home care and housing options

You or the person you’re planning for should identify what level of care they desire in the near and long-term.

There are many reasons people may need care: dementia/Alzheimers, recovering from a surgery, falling, or just trouble living at home. Specialized types of care exist in a variety of settings. Here is a list of possible care settings, starting with the lightest-touch care and ending with the most comprehensive care:

1) Non-medical home care

Professional caregivers, who are usually certified nursing assistants (CNAs), come to a home to help with things like getting out of bed, getting dressed, going to the bathroom, bathing, going on a walk, and cooking.

2) Adult day care

This is a good fit if there is a friend or family member willing to provide care, but the person can’t be left at home alone, even for a few hours. Care includes food, activities, and health assistance in a group setting. With this type of care, the friend/family member can get the time they need to take care of themselves or work.

3) Assisted living or residential care

This level is for people who need a bit of help and can’t or don’t want to live at home or with a family/friend anymore. The level of care varies based on need. There is a lot of variety in the quality and style of assisted living homes - apartments vs. private rooms, variety in food provided and choices, types of activities and services offered.

4) Rehab facility or nursing home/Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF)

This level is for people who need more full care, whether for short-term rehab (e.g. post-stroke, heart surgery, knee replacement) or long-term care. They have medical professionals available 24-7. They generally all still provide social and recreational options as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. As with assisted living, there is a variety in quality, so it’s important to find one that fits specific needs.

5) Hospice care

Hospice care isn’t one type of care/care location, but is actually a specialized program to offer care and support to people nearing end of life. It can include nurse and doctor visits to your home, pain treatment, counseling, and spiritual support. There are also hospice centers where someone can go if they prefer not to pass at home. If you or the person you’re planning for have had a diagnosis, talk to a doctor about this option. For more on hospice and palliative care, click here.

6) Aging in place

Many people prefer not to leave their home as they age. The comforts of staying connected to one’s memories and one’s community are substantial, and steps can be taken to ensure that independence and safety are maintained for as long as possible. For more on these steps, check out our guide to aging in place by clicking here.

As you can see, figuring out what care to get based on current needs, preferences, and budgets can be overwhelming. If you or the person you’re planning for would like help finding care in your area, email hello@peacefully.com or call 657- 999-0791 to speak to our concierge service.