Alternatives for Independent Living

Current estimates indicate that individuals turning 65 are likely to need three years of long-term care in their lifetime, with two of those years administered at home. While not everyone is capable of living completely independently, most can continue to live in their own homes if provided some outside assistance. A number of alternatives exist for independent living, ranging from occasional in-home care to community- or facility-based nursing services. Understanding the alternatives for independent living can help ensure you or your loved one receives the appropriate level of care.

Caregivers

• The majority of people needing assistance to maintain their independent lifestyle receive care from non-professional caregivers. Family members, friends, partners or neighbors may provide care for someone in the form of fixing meals, performing household chores or providing transportation to important appointments. A number of companies exist to provide care on behalf of family members who are otherwise unable to provide the care themselves.

Day Service

• Adult day service programs supplement the care provided to adults by offering social interaction while the family caregiver is away. These services typically operate during regular business hours. Individual facilities vary in their offerings, but most provide opportunities for social interaction, transportation services and a range of personal care.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities

• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) offer residents a full spectrum of assisted living options. Residents typically enter while still able to maintain their own home or apartment. These communities maintain assisted living facilities to provide care to residents who need some daily care and may also operate a nursing facility for residents who need continuous care. CCRCs typically charge a large entry fee on top of monthly fees and may obligate residents to use only that CCRC's facilities as the resident's need for care increases.

Nursing homes

• There are over 17,000 Medicare and Medicaid certified nursing homes nationwide. They are residential facilities that provide residents with continuous care. They vary widely in terms of quality of life for residents, quality of care and safety. Medicare maintains a database of nursing homes with information from past inspections, as well as characteristic information regarding the facility and residents.