The most common question people ask is how much will it cost? Today’s costs are exceptional. Up to $10,000 or more a month, depending on the patient’s needs. This is scary! Yet there are ways to calm this emotional fear.
In unfamiliar situations, it’s best to gather facts from several sources. Accurate information is the best option. Not what a friend says or what’s heard on TV commercials. Then, act early, not at the last minute, during a crisis.
What is the difference between a nursing home and a senior care community? Will Medicare pay for this? What are my choices? Where should I begin?
Discuss the future with interested family members. Learn about the Eldercare Locator, a government service at https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx
It covers more than housing. It touches on elder rights, support services, insurance, and health. Also, a phone number, 1-800-677-1116. It’s a place to learn.
Talk to local geriatric care managers. Compare the services of senior placement agencies in your area. A national company may not always be familiar with communities in your location.
When to begin? Early is the easy answer, during the Most Important stage of the Scholly Stages. So decisions are made before they’re needed.
The YouTube channel Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s with Elaine Scholly has an interview with Paul Markowitz. He answers questions and stimulates thoughts about essential relocation decisions.
Explore your options. If home care is a first choice, investigate the details. If a senior care community is not preferred, discover why. Can a family maintain the level of care needed at home? Compare costs, including personal time. Eventually, a patient requires professional help. Discuss the pros and cons early and be realistic.
When talking with a placement agency, are the patient’s personality and interests considered? It’s not just the cost but the way you are treated. Allow time to decide. Don’t make an emotional ‘last minute’ decision.
Besides medical needs, there’s the actual move. Early in the process, gradually begin to downsize. Some businesses move seniors exclusively and conduct estate sales. Know about all this beforehand.
Listen to the Let’s Talk Alzheimer’s YouTube interview again. You’ll hear new suggestions each time.
One last note: if memory care is needed, ask about smaller group homes or residential care homes. They may be preferred over a larger community.