If your mother or father is developing Alzheimer’s disease or another long term, chronic illness, you may start to wonder at what point should they stop living on their own. For some people, having their parents live at home is not an option for a variety of reasons. In such cases, assisted living or independent living facilities are two things to consider.
The difference between assisted and independent living may seem minor to the uninitiated, but there are key differences between the two that you should understand.
Independent Living
In this type of facility, there are many types of housing arrangements, from apartments to small, separate homes, that are grouped together much like a typical American subdivision. Generally, the residents in an independent living facility still have a common area where they can mingle with other members of the facility.
An independent living facility also might be referred to as an active adult community, retirement community, 55+ community or retirement home.
An independent living arrangement makes the daily life of the residents easier, so they can live on their own longer. Most landscaping and housekeeping services are taken care of, and meal preparation may also be covered. Most of these type of communities do not have staff dedicated to full time medical nursing care.
Assisted Living
An assisted living center is more designed for helping aging adults who need help with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, preparing food and keeping track of their medications. This type of facility has staff members, including medical professionals, on duty 24/7. Some of these facilities also have special units for people who have dementia and/or Parkinson’s disease.
If you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, an assisted living center could be for you. Another option is to move to a combination independent living/assisted living facility. This type of facility has both options available, so as the disease progresses, you are able to get the care that you need.
Finances
Regarding financing of either of these options, note that you normally need to pay rent for either facility. Most independent living facilities do not provide medical care services, so Medicare and Medicaid do not cover these costs. Rather, you must use your Social Security income, pension or savings to pay for it.
Assisted living facility expense may be covered to a limited degree by Medicare or Medicaid. Other options include long term care insurance, annuities and life settlements.
Whichever living facility you or your loved one chooses, we have many helpful Alzheimer’s products that can help you to maintain your independence longer:
Amefa Curved Built Up Handle Utensils
