Understanding the Different Living Options 

This is a new movement that is gaining traction on the East Coast.  The idea is that the senior homeowner rents a spare room to a college student at a discounted rate in exchange for help around the house and companionship. 

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EARN $400+ A MONTH

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TIP: Personality match is critical.  Be sure to do a thorough background check.

This is the first step on the path to older living.  Here, you will be living with other like-minded and able-bodied individuals, likely in an apartment-style complex.  Services offered and amenities vary greatly; some offer 3 meals a day, others none; some have an excellent activities program, others don't.

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COSTS $2,500+ per month

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TIP: How are the residents prompted to be involved in social activities?  Often, people move in and become recluses in their own apartments.

Some facilities specialize only in Memory Care or even a specific condition such as Alzheimer's Disease.  Most larger Assisted Living Facilities have a Memory Care ward or unit that requires extra clearance to enter or leave the premises.  This is often the only option for persons with advanced cognitive decline.

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COSTS $7,000+ per month

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TIP: Review the Evaluation Reports and determine if the citations and deficiencies are acceptable to you.  Have they resolved the problems? How?

If the problem is that the current living environment has become unsafe but health and cognition allow for independence, then the best solution could be a new home with the right design and amenities. There are many senior-friendly designs available in today's market as long as price is not a concern. 

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TIP: This will require a big commitment on the part of the Responsible Party.

This government-funded service is available to anyone diagnosed with 6 months to live.  It can be provided at any of the options mentioned above but many people opt to receive this "comfort" care at home aided by loved ones.

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COST: FREE

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If you are fortunate to have found good, reliable in-home care, consider yourself lucky.  Keep them happy and treat them well.  You can probably find a good caregiver on your own or use a Placement Agency to do the screening for you, but be prepared to pay a ripe premium.

 

 COSTS $20 - $40 per hour

 

TIP: Invest in a camera system and make sure the caregivers know they are being monitored.​

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These buildings are often adjacent to the Independent Living Facilities and usually offer care services on either a tiered (package) basis or a la carte. Costs are dependent on the level of care and fluctuate with changes in condition.  Meals and light housekeeping are included in the base price and common areas and activities are available to all residents.

 

COSTS $6,000+ per month

 

TIP: Tour the facility unannounced multiple times at different times of day - they put on a show when there is a prospect on-site.

This may be your only option depending on your situation.  It is important to get an accurate diagnosis before being moved into any new environment and a trip to the hospital might be required to make the move out of their home.

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TIP: Be sure the discharge nurse understands that the patient is no longer safe at home and that a new residence needs to be identified before they can be discharged from care.

If the current living environment has become unsafe (unsafe bathrooms, narrow doors/hallways, etc.), then another solution could be thoughtful renovations while the occupant enjoys a respite stay elsewhere. Managing construction can be overwhelming but there are several reputable contractors in the Carmichael area who can help. 

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TIP: This will require a big commitment on the part of the Responsible Party.

This is a good option when you or your loved one needs a break from the day-to-day routine.  Most of the larger facilities offer this service and it is a good chance to see how a long-term move might affect your loved one.

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COSTS $150+ per day

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TIP: Drop them off and try to enjoy yourself.  You need faith in the program and hope that there aren't any emotional breakdowns.

These facilities typically operate out of residential homes that have been renovated to accommodate up to 6 residents.  They have a more homely vibe and generally offer more personalized care.  Due to the intimate nature of the home, housemates can create special bonds as they continue a lifestyle in a familiar setting.

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COSTS $4,000+ per month

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TIP: Have a meal with the residents and engage in conversation before making a decision.

These facilities offer medical services and observation for persons who can not take care of themselves at home and have not found an alternative accommodation to be discharged to the care of.   

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TIP: Be aware of staffing deficiencies and signs of abuse.  Visit often and unannounced.

This very well could be the option of last resort but might have to happen.  This living arrangement can be good or bad depending on the relationship, personalities, abilities and tolerances of those living together.​

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