The time may come when outside help is needed to care for an older adult. It may be okay to get help in the home. Or the person might need to move into a residential care setting such as assisted living, a group home, a nursing home, or a life-care community.
There are many choices to make for long-term care. Having the right information can help make the decision easier. Below are some steps to take to find the right care.
4 Steps to Help Choose Long-Term Care |
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Step 1
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Make a list of care needs for the person. |
Step 2
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Decide if care should be at home, a community center, or a residential setting. |
Step 3
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Decide how care will be paid. |
Step 4 |
Visit several places before deciding. |
Ask the right questions.
It is important to be ready with questions when deciding if a care agency is a good fit.
- Ask if they can deal with the care needs listed in Step 1 (on other side).
- Ask how long they have been providing services, and how they hire and train staff. Ask if they do background checks on staff.
- Ask how much they charge. Find out the cost of basic services, and ask if there are extra costs.
- If the person will need care for the rest of their life, ask how the agency deals with end of life care.
Other questions depend on the type of care provided:
Questions for In-Home Care Agencies and Community Centers
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Questions for Residential Care
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After visiting and asking questions, the most important thing to consider is comfort. Did the place feel warm and inviting? How did it smell? In community centers and residential care, did the people seem well-cared for and happy? It is okay to use instincts to answer this question. If the care agency does not feel right, it is not the right choice.
Written by: Deborah B Schaus, MSW, Exec Director, Alzheimer's Association Desert Southwest Chapter