A Place for Mom: Making The Right Elder Care Choice (NAPSA)—Finding the right elder care option for an aging parent is one of the toughest decisions an adult child faces. Though most people are aware of the traditional elder care options—such as nursing homes and assisted living— many may not know that there are quite a few new options for aging loved ones. “Some neweroptions that families may not be familiar with include Alzheimer’s care, residential care homes, home care and independent living communities,” reports Pamala Temple, president and co-founderof the free resource A Place for Mom, the nation’s largest elder care referral service. Temple offers this handy guide to help seniors and their children learn more about the different types of senior housing options available. Independent Living Communities—Cater to seniors who are very independent with few medical problems. Residents live in fully equipped private apartments or townhomes. Dining services are offered and residents can choose to pay for a specified numberof meals per day. The price range is from $1,000 to $3,000 a month. Alzheimer’s Care—Housing options for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s are numerous. Services are typically delivered in an assisted living or nursing home setting. With the memory impaired, it is important to have 24hour support and structured activities to ensure their safety and quality of life. Many families try to care for their loved ones at home, which can be extremely difficult given the skill that is required to care for a person with memory problems. Price range: $2,800 to $4,500 a month. Residential Care Homes— Are private homes that typically serve residents who live together Finding the right living option for aging loved onescan be a positive experiencefor everyoneinvolved. and receive care from live-in caretakers. These homesoffer assisted care services for seniors who want a more private, homelike community. Assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing are typically provided. Price range: $1,500 to $3,000 a month. Assisted Living Communities—Are designed for seniors who are no longer able to live on their own safely but do not require the high level of care provided in a nursing home. Residents live in private or semiprivate apart- ments, which frequently have a limited kitchen area. Staff is available 24 hours per day for additional safety. The price range here is $2,000 to $4,000 a month. Nursing Homes—Provide around-the-clock skilled nursing care for the frail elderly who require a high level of medical care and assistance. Residents typically share a room and are served meals in a central dining area unless they are too ill to participate. Services may be offered in a free-standing or hospital-based facility. Price range: $4,000 to $8,000 a month. According to Temple, her service receives over 22,000 family inquiries a month. To learn more about elder care options, visit www.aplaceformom.com or call (866) 333-3110.
