The various types of senior care options available can be overwhelming. This can cause seniors and their families to avoid exploring long-term care options until they are in the midst of a crisis. Waiting until you are forced to decide makes the process far more stressful than necessary. It can also limit your ability to decide where you live post-retirement.

The more informed you are about the various senior care options available, the more equipped you will be to make a decision that leads to a positive outcome.

Here is a guide to navigating and understanding the maze of senior care options so you and your loved ones can control where you live post-retirement.

Private Duty Home Care

Private duty home care, also referred to as non-medical home care, is a service provided to older adults who need help living in their home. This service is provided by professional caregivers who are trained to help seniors maintain their personal care. They assist seniors with their activities of daily living (ADLs), which include tasks like bathing, eating, and dressing.

Caregivers can also help seniors with instrumental activities, like grocery shopping, light housework, and transportation.

Independent Living Community

An independent living community is a residence exclusively for more active seniors who can live on their own. The communities include maintenance and repairs, taking away many of the burdens associated with owning a home.

One of the most attractive benefits of independent living communities is that they allow seniors the freedom they need to live engaged, social lives. Many communities offer group meals, social activities, and group outings.

Assisted Living Community

An assisted living community is a place for seniors who need assistance with their ADLs but don’t require medical assistance. There is usually a caregiver on-site 24/7 to provide this assistance.

Senior assisted living communities allow seniors who are unable to care for themselves the ability to remain social while still having access to care.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes are for seniors who need a higher level of care than what assisted living communities or home caregivers can provide. Most nursing homes have nurses available 24/7 to provide medical assistance to residents. The nurses also help seniors with their day-to-day activities.

Seniors with chronic illnesses or disabilities can benefit significantly from an assisted living home.

Short-term Rehab Centers

Seniors who had surgery or a recent illness are often transferred to a short-term rehab center to recover. Short-term rehab centers help seniors restore their health until they can return home.

Memory Care

Memory care programs are for seniors who require care for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The caregiving staff is trained to assist adults with memory impairment.

The memory care unit is specially designed for the safety and security of people with dementia. They prevent common dementia risks like wandering, reduce anxiety, and make navigating easier for residents.

SeniorHousingNet.com: Your Trusted Resource

Many families become overwhelmed with the variety of senior citizen assisted living options available.

If you are still confused about senior care options, you can speak to one of our senior care advisors. Call 800-304-8061 for help identifying senior care options for you or your loved one.