Figuring Out the Caregiving Puzzle

Caregiving…it is becoming a buzzword these days! We read stories about the aging baby boom generation, science and medicine extending life and long term care insurance. Even Martha Stewart plans to write a book about it, after providing care for her mother during the last stage of her life. We are becoming a nation of caregivers. Already 1 in 5 adults—44 million Americans—provides unpaid care to another adult according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. 

There are pieces to the puzzle in the form of care options. Each has its advantages and disadvantages based on your loved ones needs.

Private pay home care- is becoming the preferred choice for seniors with a desire to remain in their own home as long as they can. When it comes time for your loved one to need assistance with some of the basic activities of daily living, non medical home care is an option. Caregivers are trained and assist with the daily activities of living. It can be provided in home, within assisted living facilities, as a supplement to hospice care or respite care for family caregivers who simply need some time off. 

Visiting Nurses, Physician Assistants, and Doctors- This option can also be utilized in addition to home care.  If medical assistance is required due to serious illness or rehabilitation, medical home health care is available. Skilled nurses can administer medication, monitor vitals and tend to medical care on a daily basis. 

Assisted and Independent Living Communities -These facilities serve individuals who may need more support than they get living independently, however do not need medical care on a daily basis. Most offer meals, housekeeping, and planned activities. The staff may administer medication but they do not provide complex medical care. Services vary greatly in these facilities, so be familiar with what they do and don’t offer.

Skilled Nursing Home- These facilities provide a group living environment and provide 24 hour nursing coverage and doctors make rounds regularly.

For questions about caregiving or if you need assistance in determining a care plan for your loved one, please call Kindred Spirits Senior Care, located at 103 N. Center St, Northville. We are a private pay, in-home care company, providing caregivers to assist your loved one in the activities of daily life. If we can be of service to you, please contact us at 248-924-7227 or visit our website at www.kindredspiritscare.com.