Aging is accompanied by many blessings and challenges. Your retirement era will bring copious amounts of free time – time which you can spend with family, doing things you love or trying out new things. While on the contrary, retirement can bring on unique challenges, change and new chapters. One of the most common chapters in aging involves the change in care and housing for older adults. Assisted living communities are the most common living options for seniors and the most known term when you think of “senior living” or “retirement communities”. However, for various reasons, some seniors and their families aren’t looking for assisted living just yet or need something a little more. There are several viable options to consider. Within this article, we will explore five senior living alternatives to assisted living that are available to seniors.
1. Aging in Place Modifications
The most easily obtainable option for older adults who may not be wanting to make the transition into a senior living just yet is: aging in place. This involves making necessary home modifications to accommodate a seniors changing needs. You, your family or a reputable company can install handrails, ramps, stairlifts, and bathroom safety features to make the home safe and more accessible. There are also smart home technologies that can monitor the health and safety of older adults. With the right adjustments, seniors can continue living in their own homes comfortably and safely for an extended period of time.
2. Multigenerational Homes
Although this may be an option not many American families have thought about, there are countries and cultures around the world that choose multigenerational homes over other options. This option would allow your parents or grandparents to move into your family home making it a multigenerational home. The benefits of choosing this route is the opportunity to build stronger bonds with loved ones, having a positive impact on personal, mental and physical health, and making it easier to provide the care needs for one or more family members. This method is practiced in many countries throughout Asia, Europe, South America and Africa.
3. In-Home Care & Assistance (Click here to learn about home care or home HEALTH care)
One of the most popular alternatives to assisted living is in-home care. This option allows seniors to remain in the comfort of their own homes while receiving the care and assistance they need. In-home caregivers can provide a wide range of services, from assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation to companionship and medication management. This approach often provides a sense of independence and familiarity for seniors, promoting their overall well-being.
4. Independent Living Community (Click here to learn more)
A step below assisted living communities is the wonderful option of independent living. These communities are designed for older adults who love their social and active lifestyle just as much as they love their personal space. Although these communities may be found within assisted living communities, they do not cost as much since residents don’t require the “assisted” care that assisted livings bring to the table.
5. Board & Care Homes (Click here to learn more)
This option allows older adults to live with 24-hour assistance within a residential home designed for the care of older adults, no more than 6 in a house, that may need extra special assistance. Typically, these homes are for people of any age that may be struggling with physical health issues or cognitive decline like dementia.
When considering the care of aging loved ones, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Assisted living facilities are just one of many alternatives available. Each option offers its unique set of benefits and challenges, and the choice should be based on the specific needs, preferences, and circumstances of the senior and their family. Whether it's in-home care, aging in place modifications, multigenerational homes, independent living communities, or board and care homes, there are numerous ways to ensure that seniors receive the care and support they need while maintaining their independence, dignity, and quality of life. By exploring these alternatives, families can find the right fit for their aging loved ones and make informed decisions about their care and well-being.
If you are still unsure about what option may fit your lifestyle best, feel free to reach out to one of our knowledgeable advisors who are eager to assist you in this decision making process. Head on over to our contact page to connect with an advisor today.
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