You will encounter unsettling confusion when evaluating options for your mom’s elder care. How do you know what will suit her? We might be living longer now as a result of improved healthcare, but it is still tough to compare options when your aged parents require more support for the most common daily activities.
What is aging in Place?
It is simply staying put to one’s own home. It allows your parents the independence they have come to know of and keeps them comfortable. They will be able to keep in touch with their friends and neighbors. You need not worry as there is a medical alert system that will help automatically. The drawbacks to aging in place include the possibility of major changes to the house if obstacles such as stairs exist. Senior stair lifts may be needed.
Your mom might slip when no one is around, as she may be unsupervised for long. She is most likely better off with an assistant that will help her carry out her daily activities.
Medical alert systems are essential for keeping your mom safe at home. This is an option that is associated with less in terms of cost.
If your mom is interested in enjoying the comforts in her own home, aging in place is a great option.
What is assisted Living?
This is where a community of seniors come to live together in order to be provided with all personal care services that they might need.
There are a number of benefits to this option. It is a relatively safe atmosphere where they can retain their independence. One is not constantly monitored. Instead, they are provided with help if needed and have constant access to exercises that stimulate them intellectually. You can visit them as you wish and you are in the know that they are well cared for.
There are also some drawbacks to assisted living. Often facilities are not regulated by the government. Moreover, the staff may be inadequately trained or very few in number.
If your mom prefers to have housekeeping, transportation and meals in a social environment, then assisted living is a good option.
If you feel you won’t be around often, your mom going to an assisted living community is a good idea.
What is the Best Option Then?
If your mom requires more support for her daily activities, assisted living is good for her. But if she wants and is able to go about on her own, she should go for aging in place.