Planning for long-term care is a crucial aspect of ensuring the well-being and security of you and your loved ones. In our previous post, we discussed various long-term care options, laying the foundation for understanding the spectrum of choices available. Now, in part two, we will delve deeper into additional options such as assisted living and nursing home care, helping you make well-informed decisions tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
Medical Foster Home/Adult Foster Care
A medical foster home is a private home operated by a trained caregiver. Residents may be elderly adults with chronic physical or cognitive health needs who require assistance in daily living, or younger adults with disabilities who want to reside in a non-institutional setting. The United States Department of Veterans Affairs oversees a program that encompasses about 700 U.S. medical foster homes and serves approximately 1,000 military veterans.Â
However, medical foster homes are not restricted to veterans alone. Many people in the United States live in non-VA adult foster home arrangements, finding them a comforting alternative to institutional living.
Post-Acute Care
Post-acute care offers palliative or rehabilitative services for individuals recently discharged from a hospital. Facilities such as rehabilitation centers and nursing homes often provide these services. Depending on the patient’s needs, post-acute therapy can also be administered on an outpatient basis or at home. This type of care is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition from hospital to home and preventing rehospitalization.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities bridge the gap between independent living and nursing home care. They offer essential services like medication management and light personal care that aren’t available in typical retirement or independent-living residences. Assisted living focuses on maintaining independence within a supervised setting. Residents benefit from prepared meals, housekeeping, medication management, and help with daily activities such as dressing and showering.Â
To promote socialization and engagement, these facilities frequently organize activities like exercise sessions, gardening, crafts, and movie nights. Assisted-living communities come in various forms, ranging from suburban complexes to single-house settings and city apartment buildings.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, provide comprehensive personal and medical care services beyond what is typically available in assisted living facilities. This includes 24-hour supervision, nursing care, assistance with activities of daily living, and three daily meals. Occupational, physical, and speech therapy services may also be offered.Â
While some residents stay temporarily for rehabilitation after a hospital stay, most live in nursing homes permanently due to chronic physical or mental health conditions that require continuous care. Nursing homes are equipped to manage complex medical needs, such as administering oxygen treatments and applying eye drops, ensuring residents receive the necessary health and custodial care.
Plan Ahead with Safe Harbor Law Firm
Planning for long-term care is essential to ensure you or your loved ones are well-prepared for the future. By understanding all available options—from adult foster care to nursing homes—you can make informed decisions that best suit your needs and circumstances. Whether you need immediate solutions or are beginning to consider long-term care, Safe Harbor Law Firm is here to guide and support you every step of the way.
Secure your peace of mind with our comprehensive estate planning services and expert elder law advice. Contact Safe Harbor Law Firm today to start planning for a secure and well-protected future.
