Wednesday, June 17, 2020

How to Evaluate Housing Options for Your Aging Loved One


As your loved ones age, it is sometimes necessary to consider other options than living alone or in the family home. They can resist the idea of moving and stop being independent, but in the long run, only they can make that decision. Fortunately, there are many options. Help them understand each one. In this article, Mark Berger Chicago, owner of Villa Heathcare, shares his tips for you to make the best possible decision.

Living with the family: Moving with family members, whether in their home or in an adjoining apartment or independently located on the same land, may be a good option for some older adults. Some families choose to do the opposite; the caregiver (and in some cases, their families) moves into the loved one's home to provide care.

Sharing a home: Another option for older adults is to share a house or apartment. Generally, they will have separate bedrooms (and possibly their own bathroom), but they share the kitchen and other living areas; they also share household chores. Sometimes older homeowners who prefer not to live alone or who need income, rent rooms to other older adults. Also, the owner may decide to share the home in exchange for help with cooking, cleaning, and other chores. Some community or religious groups subsidize large homes shared by multiple people.


Substitute Families: Some families choose to host an older person who needs help with daily activities. The adoptive family prepares meals and does the laundry. At best, they treat the older person as part of the family and provide emotional support as well as company. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may cover the costs of care provided by the foster family.

Lodging and care homes: This is an attractive option for those who need a little help. The home provides a room, meals and helps with daily activities. In general, these homes are smaller than assisted living residences. However, they are not always licensed or supervised by local authorities. In some states, foster care homes may provide nursing services, but they are not medical facilities.

Retirement Joint Residences / Communities: Movable and self-care residents live in their own apartments but share a few meals in a central dining room and take advantage of housekeeping services. Often these residences provide a variety of social and recreational activities. Rent can vary greatly, and there is an additional cost for meals and other services. Normally there are no entry fees. Some residences receive public grants that help keep rent low, but these places often have long waiting lists and rigorous entry requirements.

Assisted Living Residences: These residences provide housing for those who cannot live independently, but do not need specialized nursing care. The level of help varies between residences and can include help with grooming, dressing, meals, and cleaning. The cost varies according to the services that are needed. Click here to read more about the assisted living residences managed by Mark Berger Chicago.

Nursing Homes for the care of disabled older adults: These best-known residences provide specialized nursing care and considerable long-term support. These homes provide meals as well as medical care and personal care. The bedrooms and bathrooms can be private or shared. Medicare may cover short-term expenses after a hospital stay. Medicaid may offer coverage to residents who meet medical and financial requirements.

As a leading provider of post-hospital care, rehabilitation, skilled nursing and long-term care services, Villa Healthcare founded by Mark Berger, has decades of experience. By delivering solutions for quality care, Mark Berger Chicago aims to improve the lives of the seniors and individuals with disabilities who receive long term or post-acute care in Villa Healthcare facilities each year. ​

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