At some point in their lives, nearly everyone reaches a point where their age makes getting help both appreciated and necessary. When that time is approaching you, it’s important that you understand the different options you have. There are many and they offer differing levels of care.
Board and care homes
Often called group homes, board and care facilities tend to be small, with no more than around 20 people living in them. Residents may have rooms of their own or share a room with another. Typically, nursing and medical care are not provided on-site, though meals, personal care and around-the-clock staff are available.
Assisted living
Some people need help with their daily needs but not to the extent provided by a nursing home. This is where assisted living facilities come in. They tend to be larger than board and care homes, with anywhere from 25 to well over 100 residents. The levels of care can vary from facility to facility, but they provide additional care that group homes do not – such as housekeeping and laundry, security, help with medication and 24-hour supervision.
Nursing homes
Focused more heavily on medical care than other types of facilities, nursing homes may be a temporary stop for someone recovering from illness or a permanent option. In addition to services like meals and general supervision provided by assisted living communities, nursing homes provide rehabilitative services and nursing care.
Continuing care retirement communities
CCRC’s are made up of different types of facilities within one community. They can include individual residences like you’d find in a board and care home, another facility designed for assisted living and a separate nursing home. Since a resident’s needs can change over time, CCRC’s give them the option of easily moving from one facility to another in order to fulfill those needs.
Regardless of which option is right for you, long-term care can be expensive. When the time comes to consider your options, it is critical that you seek professional help so that your financial decisions match the requirements of your health and well-being.