As America Ages Senior Care Flourish's

by ElderCarelink      

The Georgetown University Public Policy Institute estimates nearly 70% of individuals may need some form of long-term care after they turn 65.

"People want to stay in their own home," says James Firman, president of the National Council of Aging, "and if they can't, they want to go to a place where they can get assistance but that still feels homelike."

Alternatives to nursing homes

According to Medicare.gov, most older Americans who need long-term care can receive care at home and don't need to enter a nursing home.

Alternatives to nursing homes include home care services, assisted living facilities, boarding houses, or adult day care.

Here is a quick look at two long-term care alternatives:

1. Home care services. Home visiting services can be beneficial for elders that wish to remain in their homes. Home care workers can provide a range of services, from physical therapy to bathing assistance, transportation to meal preparation.

2. Adult day care services. Adult day care centers provide activities for seniors during mostly business hours, Monday through Friday. They offer family caregivers the opportunity to take a break or go to work.

But, families should discuss the various long-term care options in advance, well before care is necessary.