TWD #21 Exploring Options for Aging Loved Ones

Hello cherished readers. It’s Carol Phillips here, your trusted Seniors Real Estate Specialist, Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist, and the proud author of “Transitions With Dignity – A Six Step Blueprint To Help Your Loved One Embrace Change.” Today, let’s explore the options for aging loved ones, from cohabitation to the various forms of senior housing.

Can Someone Move in with Grandma?

Sometimes, the best way to honor our elders’ wishes to stay in their homes is to find someone willing to move in with them. This person might be a reliable relative or close friend who can help with daily chores and provide much-needed companionship. If this is an option for your family, be sure to establish clear parameters and a solid plan for the future.

Aging in Community: There’s No Place Like Home

If inviting an elderly loved one to live with you isn’t feasible, don’t let societal pressures make you feel guilty. There are myriad options available today, from large amenity-rich senior residences to intimate home-style environments. The key is to understand your loved one’s needs, your budget, and what they would find most enjoyable.

Apples and Oranges: Navigating the Senior Living Landscape

Gone are the days of the dreary nursing home image. Today’s senior living communities cater to a variety of needs and desires, thanks to the demands of the aging baby boomer generation. When evaluating these communities, be sure to look beyond just the price tag and consider factors such as location, services available, facility quality, potential for faith-based community engagement, and ability to provide the right level of care as your loved one ages.

Understanding the Levels of Care

Senior living options can be categorized broadly into four levels of care:

1.  Independent – For seniors who are fully or mostly independent.

2.  Assisted – For seniors requiring some care assistance.

3.  Nursing – For seniors who need skilled medical care.

4.  Memory Care – For seniors with dementia who need help with most daily activities.

These levels form the backbone of the senior housing industry, each catering to specific needs and lifestyles.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of the options available for our aging loved ones. As we navigate these transitions together, remember that every step we take is an act of love, ensuring our seniors age with dignity and comfort.

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll delve deeper into the various senior housing options and levels of care. Until then, remember to look beyond the present moment and consider all potential scenarios when making decisions for your loved ones. It’s not just about meeting the immediate need; it’s about planning for the future.

Warmest regards,

Carol Phillips
Seniors Real Estate Specialist and Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist in Phoenix
Author of “Transitions With Dignity, A Six Step Blueprint To Help Your Loved One Embrace Change”

[email protected]
CarolPhillips.exprealty.com
TransitionsWithDignity.com