Aging
Written by Brian B

Levels Of Care For Elderly

This article will detail the six most common levels of elderly care.

In-Home Care

Often referred to as aging in place, in-home care is designed for elderly citizens who need help around their own homes. Still, these seniors will possess the mental and physical capabilities to survive on their own. This level of care usually consists of daily check-ins, administering personal care and medications.

Staying at home in a comfortable environment is how most seniors prefer to age. In-home care does not tend to last a long time, though. Elderly citizens receiving in-home care typically transition to independent or assisted living communities in the near future.

Independent Living

Many factors can deter seniors in good health from choosing to live in an assisted living facility. One reason may be of the financial burden this housing can put on an individual. Or perhaps you are looking for more of a community with plenty of social interaction. For these reasons, independent living may be the best option possible. Independent living communities generally offer a lot of activities, perfect for social interaction with the same age group.

Independent living gives seniors the freedom they desire. No more housekeeping or meal planning. Instead, they are left to enjoy their day and load their schedule with activities. In addition, most independent living facilities offer a variety of floor plans, which range from large space to small.

No matter the floor plan chosen, a common area will be included in the community. There you will find the community dining area as well as other amenities. Some units may be equipped with their own dining areas for those seeking a little peace and quiet in the evening.

Assisted Living

The biggest benefit of assisted living is the amount of care provided compared to the independent communities. Assisted living facilities are much more attentive since most residents will require more aid. Daily services, such as bathing, laundry, dressing, housekeeping and medical care is offered. Most assisted living facilities will have staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just like independent facilities, assisted living communities provide a whole agenda of group activities for seniors looking for social interaction.

Overall costs can end up as the final factor for those deciding which community to join. Typical costs like rent and utilities are the primary costs of living in an independent facility. The financial responsibilities for an assisted living resident can be much different. Varying meal plans and around the clock medical staff will represent the biggest charges in this community. Typically, due to the services, assisted living communities will cost more than independent facilities.

Respite Care

Respite care is tailored to seniors who are a bit apprehensive about transitioning into either independent or assisted living care. It is also a level of care designed for individuals who may be transition between care stages. Respite care can last anywhere from a month up to a year long. In many ways, respite care is simply a test run to see how comfortable individuals may be at a future facility.

Memory Care

Alzheimer’s and dementia are common types of memory loss conditions that are included in memory care. This specialized care goes through a lot of various services that depend on the severity of the symptoms such as requiring secure settings to prevent wandering.

Memory care goes beyond what is normally offered for assisted living. Meal prep, laundry services, and housekeeping are provided but the level of assistance with daily activities will be increased. Often times, the daily activities are made just to allow the person to reconnect with their favorite hobbies and even interests.

When it comes to recognizing care challenges for those who have Alzheimer’s or dementia, these communities may only provide memory care or for some continuing care communities will have neighborhoods just for memory care. Often times, these communities will have design elements that has shown to lower stress for those who have Alzheimer’s and dementia. These elements could include circular neighborhood designs that allow safe wandering, natural lighting, and memory boxes outside of the room. 6 out of 10 people that have Alzheimer’s will start to wander around, and the community will be designed to lower risks of wandering and that could be adding security alarms on doors or safety checks.

Nursing Home

This type of care is regarded as the most concentrated living situation for seniors today. Nursing home care features more invasive caregiving than any of the other arrangements. Individuals who need frequent hospital visits, with worsening conditions, should opt for nursing home care.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

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