Adapted from Episode 3 of The Caregiven Podcast
Assisted living facilities are probably the first, and maybe only option that comes to mind when discussing what to do about your mother who is declining in health and cannot live alone any further. While Assisted Living Facilities, or ALFs are of the most common care options to consider, did you know that there is another option?
Before we divulge into the pros and cons of your care options, let’s clearly identify what exactly the options are that are in front of you; ALFs and in-home care.
Assisted Living Facilities (ALF)
An ALF is also known as a retirement home, nursing home, or senior living center. These facilities generally house residents who receive care from a caregiving staff, eat meals in a dining area as a group, participate in group activities, and occupy rooms alone or with a roommate. For highly social individuals or individuals who don’t need as many 1-on-1 services, this is a great way to receive care. Additionally, for some whose living conditions at home aren’t suitable for care, an ALF can serve as a safe alternative.
The downside of an ALF is the extremely high cost. These facilities can cost well between $5,000-$10,000/month, since not only are you paying for caregiving, but you also pay for renting out your living accommodations and meal plans. Many also find that these group facilities have long waiting lists for residents. Since there is a fixed number of rooms and beds, ALFs can only serve so many seniors.
IN-HOME CARE
The true benefit of in-home care is being able to receive care from the comfort and safety of your own home. A caregiver will come to you and give you 1-on-1 care anywhere from a couple of hours up to 24/7 care. Caregivers are trained to help with personalized tasks including but not limited to hygiene, light-housekeeping, cooking, and companionship. For individuals who prefer privacy and familiar environments, this is the best option available.
Although many agencies have community integration plans to get seniors out and about, some prefer the company of a large group. Another problem people can face with in-home care is if the living conditions of the senior don’t support their health. In extreme cases, some homes aren’t safe for the senior or the caregiver without significant renovations.
how do I choose?
So, which option is better?
That answer really depends on the needs and resources available. Some individuals with extensive health requirements might find being in a skilled nursing facility (another type of ALF) more beneficial than bringing a skilled nurse into their home. Others might need assistance with activities of daily living that are best suited for an in-home caregiver.
The best way to decide is to balance the needs and resources of an individual to land on what is best for your family. It’s important to keep in mind that you should ask your loved one what they prefer. If they can’t lend much insight, consider their behavior earlier in life. Were they the type to be out on the town with a group of friends most nights, or did they prefer being at home working on projects around the house? This might give you insight into what environment is going to be the best for them.
Another great way to find the best option for your loved one is to compile research about the options at hand. Interview multiple agencies or ALFs to get a sense of which one feels the best. It never hurts to put yourself in your loved one’s position, and consider what option you would choose. For some, it can be beneficial to ask around in your community, as many have experience with caring for their family members or finding someone to do the job. Most people will tell you whether an in-home care agency or ALF is worth their weight in gold or is worth avoiding at all costs.
All in all, there isn’t one right answer that works for everyone. Each individual has different preferences and needs that must be considered. This is a very important decision for a family to make and the best way to make it is with as much information as possible. Talk as a family and ensure everyone feels heard before deciding, and know that whatever your family decides, it’s vital to continue to advocate for your loved one’s needs. Stay involved and up to date on how their health progresses (or regresses). Situations can change weekly, and even daily.