Where To Transition To When Moving
It has been determined that my loved one needs more assistance than can be provided living in their own home and we are ready to transition- now what?
Our care managers are skilled in assessing the level of care needed and matching it with the appropriate type of facility. They consider factors such as location preferences, lifestyle choices, health care needs, cognitive capabilities and budget. With a deep understanding of Portland’s senior living communities, we can guide you to the best options that align with your personal and healthcare requirements. It is important to understand the differences in types of senior living communities.
Independent Living
These communities offer your own apartment within a senior living setting. Generally, a specific amount of food is included and served community style- in the dining room. Light housekeeping is offered weekly and they often have excellent activities to participate in. Often, they offer community outings as well as medical appointment transportation as needed. Regular caregivers are not available, however they usually offer emergency call buttons/cords. Some Independent Living facilities will also have a caregiving company in the building that you could privately pay for specific tasks, such as pet care or assistance putting compression stockings on.
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities generally provide assistance as needed or as requested with day to day activities. This is usually provided on a sliding scale or a la carte fees. Assisted living facilities (ALF’s) provide caregiving services within a private apartment of a senior community. Care is available 24/7 as needed however sometimes you may have to wait after hitting the call button from 5-15 minutes before help arrives. Assisted living facilities also can provide/manage medications. Food is included and served in a group dining setting. Often activities are provided as well as community outings and help with transportation to/from medical appointments.
Memory Care
Memory care units/facilities are specifically for those with cognitive impairments that pose a risk to their safety if they were not in a controlled setting. Doors are locked to help ensure the clients safety, however visitors are allowed in without issues. Staff has to proactively anticipate the clients needs and provide hygiene. All meals are included and there are numerous activities provided in a group setting to keep residents entertained. All medications are provided/managed. Generally this is the most expensive service since it provides total care.
Continuum of Care Settings
This term indicates a senior community that offers all 3 levels of care- independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Residents can move in at the higher level and as their needs progress, they can shift your care within the community- usually offering a different apartment/wing of the building when the care level progresses. If your loved one has a progressive disease, often this is a good type of community to consider.
Adult Foster Homes
Oregon offers adult foster care homes that generally have up to 5 residents within a home setting. This smaller environment offers more personal care as the caregivers are consistent. All meals are prepared and generally residents eat together, family style, at the kitchen table. Residents have their own bedroom with shared communal spaces. Activities are often limited and transportation is not available. Medication management is provided. Often a family or caregivers live within this larger home, in a different wing or section of the home and can be available in the case of emergency over night. Care is provided during daytime/awake hours. If night time toileting assistance is needed, you must ensure that the specific home offers awake overnight caregivers.
If you have any questions regarding the best setting for your loved one- contact us today for a free consultation.
