April 26th, 2019 | Updated on January 20th, 2021
As the Baby Boomer generation continues to age, the welfare and safety of your parents may become a more pressing concern. Even daily tasks can become a problem for older adults, let alone the safety issues that come from living alone.
If you are worried about your mom or dad living alone and think it’s time to bring in some help or make a move, it’s best to know what will suit your parent the best.
Many seniors have no desire to leave their own homes where they feel comfortable and safe, so convincing them that a retirement home may be a wise move can be a challenge.
Depending on the amount of outside care that your parent needs, they may be eligible for either home care or a retirement home where they can enjoy independent living with skilled nursing in the facility.
So which option is right for your parents? Do your research and have open and honest discussions with your parents to make the right choice for you and them.
Assisted Living For Active Seniors
The retirement communities of today are not the traditional old age homes from the past. Active adult facilities like Mary T Inc are opening up across the country.
They focus on safe and comfortable living for seniors in an environment in which they still feel like they have some control over their daily lives.
Most communities have onsite medical facilities and staff that are there 24/7 to meet your parents’ needs. Nurses can help monitor general health and assist residents where needed with errands, medications and therapy.
A retirement community encourages an active and social lifestyle for seniors that can be missing for many that are living alone.
Local transportation, help with shopping and other errands are generally included for the convenience of all residents.
One monthly cost that includes all utilities, onsite medical services, laundry and housekeeping can save money and hassles that many seniors are currently dealing with.
Senior Home Care
For many seniors, the thought of leaving their home is more than they want to think about. There is no place more comfortable than home, and most seniors would choose to stay where they are for as long as they can.
The issue of safety and health care can be addressed by having a personal care worker come into the home to help your parent.
Most professional home care workers charge by the hour. Rates are dependant on experience and level of qualification.
Depending on the needs of your parent you may have to make arrangements to have someone come in only a few times a week or several times a day.
Home care workers can fulfill many different duties from medication administration to running daily errands.
The issue of personal safety is still a major concern for many families. It is recommended that if your parent chooses to stay at home, that a personal safety/medical alert be purchased for their protection.
With a home worker keeping an eye on your parent, keeping them company and making sure that they have what they need, you can have some peace of mind about your parents’ care.
