In those last moments on the cross, the Lord said to His disciple John, “Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home” (Jn. 19:27). With those words Mary was provided for, in a Christian home. I believe the Lord set an example for us that, when possible, a Christian senior’s home is the ideal place for His people when they can no longer care for themselves or have family that cannot meet their care needs.
As an administrator of a Christian not-for-profit Care Home for over seven years, I have interviewed and counseled many families on placement in a Long Term Care setting. Most often the need for placement was urgent or imminent. It has rarely been part of a long-term plan for future needs. This article may offer some avenues of approach to assist you to begin making preparation toward a future possible decision about Senior Housing placement.
There are three simple steps we might follow:
1. Establish your care needs
2. Evaluate your options
3. Expedite your decision
Let’s take a closer look at each one and how it can assist us in arriving at a decision.
1. Establish your care needs
Needs are different than desires and we should not confuse the two. The need aspect is determined by your physical functioning, financial circumstances and social supports such as family availability, but also including seeking an environment that is conducive to spiritual nourishment.
The desire aspect is what may appeal to you. The idea of how yourself or others might perceive a certain setting. “What would people think if I lived in this or that facility?” Or, the “image” of an upscale facility compared to the more humble surroundings of an older home. Ultimately, a decision based on desire may result in unhappy circumstances for you, your family members and your circle of friends.
2. Evaluate your options
There are many different types of providers in the realm of senior care. They include: CCRC: This acronym stands for Continuing Care Retirement Community and describes an organization where one can enter as a generally independent senior with some written assurance of continuing care through the remainder of your natural life, despite changes in your health status.
Hospice Care: This can be provided in the home or a facility. It aims to improve the quality of life and relieve suffering for terminal patients.
Community Support Services/In Home Care: These services allow you to remain in your home in a comfortable and safe manner. The services can include nursing care, therapies, meal preparation and homemaking.
Retirement or Care Homes: These homes provide accommodation in a residential setting. Their care will vary, and may include meals, laundry, housekeeping and 24-hour staffing. In some case there are levels of nursing for supervising medications and a degree of personal care to assist with the activities of daily living. These facilities are not generally subsidized by government programs.
Assisted Living: These are facilities that provide for those who are frail and require supervision. Assistance may be available for dressing, bathing and frequent assistance with the activities of daily living. These may or may not be subsidized by government programs.
Long Term Care Homes/Nursing Homes: These homes are for those who are not able to live independently and require 24-hour nursing care. Most of these homes will qualify for government subsidy, but since not all Homes participate, it is always best to inquire before moving in.
3. Expedite Your Decision
Once you have determined your needs and assessed your options with family and friends it is time to put into place your decision. Start with visits to facilities by prearranging each visit. Make appointments with the Admissions Director or Care Manager as this will enable a smooth and productive visit. Remember to ask questions and take notes. It is also advisable to bring a family member or a friend. Don’t be shy about interviewing residents who are already living in the facility. Hearing their perspective first hand may allow an insight you may otherwise not have. Inquire if the facility is part of an association and is it accredited or licensed. In other words what are their standards as to care levels, health and safety features, and nursing for example. Finally, ask about trial periods, lease agreements or any type of contract that you may be asked to sign.
Remember—it’s up to you.
Written by Gerry Croteau