Transition options for seniors

As we age, our needs change, especially when it comes to our healthcare and living arrangements.

Eventually, you or a loved one will be faced with several decisions when it comes to how and where you live and the types of assistance or care you will receive.

Depending on your level of health, you may have to choose between simple downsizing, or moving to a smaller home, or making the transition to a senior living community.

From that point, assisted living, skilled nursing and long-term care may arise as possible care and transition options.

So, it’s necessary to become familiar with these four scenarios to avoid being overwhelmed when the time comes to choose what’s right for you.

Downsizing

You’ve seen your kids off and retired and are now basking in the glow of your golden years.

You are comfortable, healthy and independent, but all the extra space and material you have accumulated over the years no longer serve you and only cause you unnecessary stress.

Through downsizing, you can free up space where you need it and reduce that space where you don’t.

You can donate, give away or sell off any items you no longer want or need and sell your larger, more physically and financially demanding home for a smaller, more manageable one.

Once you have created a more minimal and efficient living situation for yourself, you will be better prepared for the later transitions that often come with age –– and so will your loved ones!

If the demands of downsizing become too much to handle, you can consult a downsizing or transition service for added support and guidance.

Once home maintenance becomes something you no longer want at all, you may consider moving into a senior living community.

Senior Living Services

There are actually two kinds of senior living communities:

Independent Living is for healthy, able-bodied seniors who no longer want the burden of home maintenance and upkeep but do not need regular assistance with activities of daily living. Independent living communities provide a secure, comfortable environment where residents can experience a lifestyle of leisure and ease.

Assisted Living is for seniors who do not need round-the-clock nursing or medical care but still need assistance with certain activities of daily living, such as cooking, dressing or getting out of bed.

With both these senior living options, seniors benefit from a comfortable, often resort-like environment full of helpful resources and enjoyable, therapeutic amenities.

Many senior living communities offer deluxe, nutritious meals daily, health and wellness activities, recreational schedules, transportation services and more.

Long-Term Care

Long-term care, which often includes skilled nursing, is necessary for anyone who has reached the point where they require assistance with most activities of daily living and require round-the-clock care and monitoring by registered and licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants.

Though residents in this situation receive regular care, they can still enjoy the amenities offered at their care facility.

Many long-term care facilities, specifically many Life Care Centers of America facilities, offer the same amenities that senior living communities do, such as fine dining, regular activities schedules and transportation.

While these transitional scenarios all have their differences, they work in concert to ensure that you or a loved one have the care, support and comfort necessary for greater well-being and higher quality of life.

Many Life Care campuses offer long-term care, assisted living and independent living all at one location to make transitioning from one living situation to another smoother.

This is what is often referred to as a continuum-of-care campus.

Whatever your situation, there are many resources available that can help you make the right decision when it comes to senior living and care.

A simple Google search can connect you with free sources and services that offer support, advice and suggestions.

And never hesitate to call the nearest Life Care facility with any questions. An associate would be happy to offer you the guidance and resources you need to secure the life you deserve.