It can be difficult to find the right terms for senior living communities, such as long-term and short-term care.
What is long-term health care?
There are many levels and options for long-term care. It offers support services to meet the needs of people with chronic conditions, such as those who are unable to eat, bathe, or take medication.
Is it the right time to take long-term care?
Long-term care typically includes a range of services, including personal care, skilled nursing, memory support and independent living. Seniors with mobility problems, such as the inability to move in and out of chairs safely, or when chronic conditions are worsening, may benefit from long-term care.
In-home caregivers might initially be able to support an older adult at home. Many older adults find it beneficial to move to a long-term community where they can receive additional support for changing needs.
What care levels are available for long-term care?
There are many levels of long-term care available at the most prestigious retirement communities. The care provided by specially trained staff is what differentiates each service level.
These care levels are available at senior living communities listed in ascending services offered:
- Independent Living. Independent living residents are able to live in their own apartments or cottage homes. They do not receive any personal care services, even though they do not offer long-term care. Residents have the option to share meals in elegant dining rooms with their friends and take part in a variety of outings and activities.
- Personal Care, Assisted Living. Seniors who require assistance with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, getting in and from a chair, and taking medications are eligible for this level of retirement living. The residents are supported by trained staff. They live in a home-like setting and enjoy meals, as well as many opportunities for social interaction, entertainment, and outings that help to avoid loneliness and isolation.
- Restorative Care. This specialized level of long-term care provides additional support for residents who need it beyond what is provided by assisted living and personal care. Residents receive a personalized plan that is tailored to their needs, regardless of whether they are recovering from surgery or living with chronic conditions. This plan could include rehabilitation care, speech therapy and occupational therapy. It may also include emotional and spiritual support. Each individual is assessed by a therapist to find the best solution for them.
- Memory Support. It can be frightening to receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Memory support services can be beneficial for seniors who display certain behaviors that impact daily living. Staff members who are specially trained in providing supportive care can provide memory support programs in secure or non-secure settings.
- Skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing care and rehabilitation centers offer round-the-clock assistance for those who have complex medical needs. They can provide supervision and specialized medical treatment such as IV medications, wound care, pressure ulcers, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and IV medication. Skilled nursing provides assistance for long-term residents with daily tasks like bathing, showering and managing medication.
How much does long-term care cost?
People often feel “sticker shock” when they learn the price of long-term care, whether it is for themselves or their loved ones. Medicare does not cover long-term care services for memory support, personal care, and independent living. Skilled nursing is the only level that Medicare and Medicaid cover, as it provides medical services.
It’s a good idea for loved ones to talk about a plan to pay long-term care costs. Some senior living communities may offer long-term care insurance that can cover the cost of certain services. Long-term care insurance is something you should consider.
Grande Cypress Assisted Living is a member of the Circle of Life Communities of assisted living facilities. Located on the stunning and serene Jewel Lake in Lake City, FL, Grande Cypress is sure to help you live your best life and live it well.
The facility is 35 beds and features three sizes of private and semi-private suites. Eight rooms with kitchenettes and all rooms furnished with a mini-refrigerator/microwave combo. Discover how truly wonderful assisted living can be. Call Jennifer Allender, Senior Living Consultant, at 386-365-4050 for more information or to make a reservation.
All Circle of Life Communities are committed to providing individuals a place to age with dignity while helping maintain a purpose in a safe and caring environment.
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