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Assisted Living—For many elderly people, staying in their own homes or living with a relative is simply not a viable option because their health complications require constant supervision and attention. Assisted living housing offers a mix of residential living with personal- ized care services to those needing help with daily living. Seniors live in a comfortable private room that combines the coziness of the living room and bedroom into one. Meals are served in a dining room with other residents, encouraging individuals to socialize. As most residents in assisted living facilities are unable to completely care for themselves, 24-hour assistance is offered for eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, and walking.
Nursing Home—Many elderly individuals—either due to a debilitat- ing illness or the after-effects of a stroke—require the services of a nurs- ing home where 24-hour medical attention is available. Most nursing home facilities are very similar to a hospital. The rooms are equipped to accommodate the residents’ health needs rather than to provide a comfortable environment. Many residents are required to share a room with another patient. Because of mobility restrictions, meals are served in the patient’s room. Activities, such as bingo, and arts and crafts, are offered to stimulate residents and provide rehabilitation.
When researching a nursing home for a loved one, consider the fol- lowing as a guide:
• Does the facility appear clean and relatively free of unpleasant odors?
• How does the staff interact with residents?
• Are seniors able to wear their own clothes and decorate their rooms with personal affects?
• Is the facility licensed?
• Do the residents appear happy and content?
• Is a physician available at all times in case of emergencies?
Caring for Elderly Parents