The Directory 2023-2024

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Finding senior housing that suits you

Martha J. Miller, MSW-LICSW Social Worker Temp Social Work S enior housing is di ff erent. Unlike rental apartments, townhomes, and cooperatives for all ages, senior housing is focused on the needs of an aging population and may be called independent living, residential assisted living, assisted living, memory care, or nursing home. It may be a rental or an ownership model. Either way, senior housing can be, and usually is, quite expensive. Th erefore, it is very important for you and your family to thoroughly research the subject prior to moving in. Fortunately, there are many resources to assist in the planning and execution of your senior housing decision. First and foremost, you need to ask yourself: • What can I a ff ord? • What do I need help with? □ Cleaning □ Medication setup and administration □ Personal cares □ Meals Take stock of your physical and mental situation. If you are in good health and able to accomplish daily activities without assistance, drive a car, walk outside, and cook your own meals, then independent living may be your best choice. If, on the other hand, you require assistance with moving around, cooking, bathing, and getting to the store, then assisted living or residential assisted living may suit you best. Memory care is generally required for persons who have been diagnosed with mild to severe dementia which greatly reduces their ability to independently function on their own.

It is important to be open and accepting that as we age, we may need more help. Needing more assistance with services and wanting connections with others is normal.

Help topick your next home

Senior LinkAge Line Free information and referral service.... (800) 333-2433 Disability LinkAge Line ......................... (866) 333-2466 Veterans LinkAge Line .......................... (888) 546-5838 Different housing types onpage34>

Nursing homes are for those who need around-the-clock care and can be for the short-term, as you recuperate from an injury or an illness, or for long-term care. Ask if services are included Some communities provide or contract out services such as cleaning, medication setup, personal cares (via licensed providers), and meals. Of course, these services may be in addition to your housing cost. You and your family need to ask about additional service fees prior to moving in to avoid any surprises.

It is important to be open and accepting that as we age, we may need more help. It is very normal to want and need more assistance with services and to want more connections with others. As we age, we require more teamwork, connections, and activities that sustain and enrich our lives. Th e selection of your next home is an important decision. Be sure to include your signi fi cant other and / or family to get their full feedback on needs and concerns.

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