Alternatives to Assisted Living
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When a senior can no longer live independently on their own, the first thought that comes to mind is likely an assisted living facility. Some loved ones do not realize that seniors usually want to remain in their own homes, where they feel safe and comfortable. Seniors who live alone possibly think that there are few, if any, assisted living alternatives.
There are a few assisted living alternatives that help older adults stay in their own homes. These can help them remain independent for as long as possible. Loved ones may feel a sense of relief when they learn about these alternatives for their senior family members. Read on to learn about your options.
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1. Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems come in a variety of sizes, styles, and models. They also offer different features, functions, and optional add-on products.
The popularity of medical alert systems has grown exponentially over the past several years. The demand for medical alert systems is expected to grow stronger in the coming years.
The technology of medical alert systems has come a long way in the last few decades. Recent technological advances in these devices provide seniors with freedom inside and outside the home. There are high-tech devices like smartwatch systems, smart speakers, and on-the-go pendants.
AARP explains that seniors and their loved ones need to consider several factors before choosing a medical alert system. The first medical alert systems worked only inside the home. There are still models available for use strictly in the home for seniors who do not venture too far outside when alone.
More active seniors can use a call button on a mobile alert system to get help when they’re away from home. Features like fall detection, 24-hour monitored systems, and mobile GPS tracking give seniors more freedom. It’s especially helpful to seniors choosing to live at home instead of an assisted living facility.
Seniors have many options when choosing medical alert systems. The right system depends on the needs and preferences of the senior. Companies that offer popular medical alert systems keep the needs of seniors in mind when considering the type of system, features, and affordability of their medical alert products and services.
2. Senior Foster Care
Senior foster care is a smaller facility, similar to a group home. At senior foster care, a few seniors reside together in a small residential setting. This provides a closer community compared to the larger size of an assisted living facility.
While senior foster care workers assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), they do not provide medical care.
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3. Senior Day Care
Senior day care allows seniors to go to a facility such as a community center or agency during the day and return home at night.
This provides older adults with the opportunity to engage with other seniors. It also allows family members to go to work, run errands, or have a few hours of respite from the senior loved one.
4. Home Care
Home care provides a means of receiving help from family members, friends, volunteers, or others in the community. Home care workers assist with laundry, meals, shopping, and cleaning.
5. Living with Family Members
Some seniors and family members agree that it’s best for the older adult to reside with the family.
Family members who have responsibilities throughout the day may feel more at ease with a medical alert system for their loved ones. This is helpful when family members are not available to provide immediate help.
What is the Current Trend for Assisted Living?
The market growth rate for medical alert systems demonstrates their popularity. Seniors want to feel the sense of security provided by their medical alert devices. Meanwhile, family members feel relief because they know help is there when the senior needs it.
Seniors live longer and are more active longer than past generations. They take their independence seriously, which likely contributes to the slowed growth of assisted living facilities. Seniors Housing Business published an article by Jeff Shaw, who revealed that for the second quarter of 2018, the combined occupancy rate for assisted living facilities, independent living facilities, and memory care facilities was at an all time low.
Medical alert system manufacturers and retailers understand the importance of providing high-quality protection. They provide options for seniors residing at home for longer periods. Assisted living facility workers assist residents with ADLs but do not provide skilled nursing care. For this reason, seniors may feel more comfortable residing at home with a medical alert system.
Today’s more active seniors may balk at the idea of moving into an assisted living facility. Although there are options such as senior day care and home care, those options are for usually a short period.
Medical alert systems often provide 24-hour monitoring services and wearable devices that make seniors feel more secure and safe at home. They also provide peace of mind for concerned family members. Medical alert systems provide a safer lifestyle for seniors who choose to live at home.
