Saturday, April 30, 2016

By Harold Stevens


As senior citizens advance in age, they become increasingly dependent on their family members. Meeting all their needs and keeping them comfortable usually comes at a price. Often times, one or two relatives have to quit their job or make readjustments which may have dire economic or social consequences. There are a number of arrangements of senior living West Pasco County residents need to know if they are struggling in taking care of their seniors.

Independent living is one of the commonest forms that exist. This type is recommended for individuals that are healthy and active. Such persons are able to live on their own in residences such as condos, townhouses, mobile homes or even ordinary homes. Living alongside others gives them a sense of community. In these settings, there are a number of amenities that are shared including clubhouses, gyms, security and housekeeping among others.

Assisted living is designed for individuals that prefer to be on their own but would like to be assisted with a number of activities. They also have a communal setting and one only asks for assistance whenever the need arises. Some of the activities for which assistance is usually required include preparation of meals, personal mobility, exercise programs and personal laundry services among others. A typical community consist of between 25 and 120 units.

Another type is what is referred to as congregational living. In this type, a variety of services are provided except those that are medical related. The full extent of these services vary from one place to another and by the amount of money one is willing to pay. Residents are required to have a minimum age of 55 years (65 years in other homes). They should, in addition, be able to take care of matter relating to personal hygiene, mobility and toilet use.

There are many other forms that exist. Some, like Alzheimer and memory loss homes and the Veteran homes are for specific conditions. The Continuing Care Retirement Community (or CCRC) is one that combines several times. It is the most expensive of all the types. Apart from the normal support services, the residents have access to a nursing home and also benefit from a large variety of educational and social amenities.

You have to take a number of things into consideration when looking for a home. Choose one that is close so that friends and relatives can visit easily. Ensure that the environment is well secured and is free from noise and odor. As you asses the residents try to establish whether they are friendly and whether or not they have any shared interest with your senior.

Although most homes have a set of activities that are designed to keep their residents busy, some allow the residents to come up with their own programs. Among the elderly, the incidence of chronic degenerative diseases and conditions such as arthritis, dementia, heart disease and hypertension is generally higher than the rest of the condition. Encourage them to involve themselves in regular physical activities such as walking, swimming, cycling and jogging.

The decision to enroll a senior relative to a home is not an easy one. In the absence of available caretakers, however, this might be the only option. There are many different types of homes offering varied services. Ensure that you compare several of them before settling on your final choice.




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