Whether always justified or not, care homes are often associated with poor individual care, staff shortages, and the idea of being put out to pasture. People in need of care, therefore, usually prefer to stay at home in familiar surroundings. The financial aspect also plays a role, because often the savings or insurance available are not sufficient to afford the cost of a care home.
Many people in need of care, therefore, prefer to stay at home, often cared for by their relatives. However, in the event that relatives are overwhelmed with the care or can no longer manage it alone, an alternative must be found. Sometimes that is home care, but when that isn’t an option a residential care home is a pleasant option for parent and adult child.
Residential Care Homes — A Home Away from Home
Although many people resist moving, a residential care facility offers many advantages for seniors and relatives. A residential care home is ideal for those requiring a lower level of need/physical dependency as opposed to those living in a nursing home.
When looking for a suitable residential care home, it should always be considered that the quality of life in the new environment suits the person who is to move in.
The benefits of living in a residential care home are manifold. In many respects, it’s a bit like comparing life in a hotel to life on your own.
- Increased safety and peace of mind.
- Being close to others means companionship, social, and mental stimulation.
- Having a space of your own without all the chores.
- Medical staff close by means added peace of mind.
Those who can deliberately take their time when choosing a residential care home for a relative. Also, relatives should not go over the head of the family member concerned in deciding about which care facility to choose. Where one feels comfortable can only be decided by oneself; therefore, seniors should always be included in visits and planning.
“If you have not already been thrust into a caregiving role, you can prepare for the possibility. The ideal time to begin talking with your parents about their care as they age is before they need it.” www.kiplinger.com
Why the Right Facility is Important for Optimal Care
The idea of what everyday life is like in a residential care home is usually rather vague: from accommodation and catering to activities and social offers, only very few can visualize what awaits them in a care home or a retirement residence.
Many residences today have an excellent reputation, but finding the facility that perfectly suits a person is not always easy. In order to ensure that the services and living space are entirely right, a wide variety of parameters must be considered and queried in advance. While some people place value on living in accommodations that offer assistance, others find it important to maintain a degree of independence.
“One of the most universal pieces of advice was to ask questions about continuing care when you are looking at facilities. Many people regretted not having their loved one in a facility where they could ‘step up’ to more comprehensive care, including nursing home care with hospice.” www.aarp.org
When Does it Make Sense to Move to a Residential Care Home?
As a rule, very few people like to leave their homes. After all, one’s own four walls are still the best. So for many, moving into residential care is rather a big psychological burden.
But when should a residential care home be considered? A move should be considered for the following people.
Care at home is no longer possible.
And here it is not necessarily only the food and shopping that is relevant, because Meals on Wheels has become a good alternative to cooking for yourself. Here, the whole day-to-day life is involved. Often, single people without family support also experience neglect.
People who live alone are at risk of falling.
In many cases, seniors are at great risk of falling. A home emergency call can save lives in many cases of falls. However, if the person is unconscious (for example, due to a fall or hypoglycemia in diabetics, etc.), he or she can no longer make the life-saving emergency call.
People without care from family or friends.
Not all people in need of care have relatives or friends who can provide care at home. Sometimes the children live far too far away or they cannot take on the necessary care. Other times the person is simply without social connections.
“The National Institute on Aging also notes that social isolation is linked to increased risks of depression, cognitive decline, obesity and a weakened immune system.” www.moneytalksnews.com
When carers reach their limits.
The physical and psychological strain on the carer must also be taken into account. If the carer is no longer able to take over the caregiving due to health reasons, often the only option is to move to a care home.
There is no barrier-free living.
If the person’s current home cannot be converted or adapted for the disabled, a residential care home is often the solution.
Ready to Learn about Living in a Care Home?
Looking at residential care home options is overwhelming, we get it. We’d love to talk about your long-term goals and how to best meet the needs of your loved one or yourself. Let’s book an appointment for a conversation and a tour today.