Understanding Different Levels of Senior Care
Learning about types of senior care can help you and your loved one determine which environment is ideal. Your senior’s medical condition, level of assistance, mobility and communication skills will influence where they should stay.
What is Independent Living?
This living environment offers the lowest level of senior care. Your loved one may suit independent living if they are self-sufficient, can handle daily activities and don’t require medical assistance.
Independent living is a good option for your mom or dad if they want to continue to lead an active life but no longer want to manage a household.
Benefits of Independent Living
- Social opportunities
- Reduced risk of loneliness and isolation
- Access to fitness centers, pools, housekeeping, transportation and dining options
- Fewer chores and homeownership responsibilities
- A secure living environment
- Peace of mind for family and friends
- Reduced stress and relaxed lifestyle
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is for those who require more hands-on support. Your senior will receive help with activities of daily living (ADL), such as bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, feeding and medication management. Your loved one will also receive medical attention to live comfortably while maintaining a sense of autonomy.
Your mom or dad may need to make the move to assisted living if they have decreased mobility, failing eyesight or issues with nutrition.
The Benefits of Assisted Living
- 24-hour care availability
- Enhanced personal safety and peace of mind
- Effective symptom and pain management
- Relief from housekeeping and maintenance tasks
- Improved quality of life
- Safe transportation for outings and shopping trips
- Community connection and quality time with loved ones
What is Skilled Nursing?
Skilled nursing is available for short- and long-term periods and is typically prescribed when your loved one requires a higher level of care. For example, they may need to reside in a skilled nursing facility following a severe illness, injury, hospitalization or surgery. Clinical staff provide 24-hour medical supervision and nursing assistance.
Benefits of Skilled Nursing
- Access to clinical expertise and coordinated care
- Comprehensive care including physical, occupational and speech therapies
- Specialized care such as wound care, respiratory and cardiac care
- Nutritious meals and dietary support
- Emotional, physical and mental support
- Educational resources for patients and families.
What is Short-Term Rehabilitation?
Short-term rehabilitation helps your loved one achieve their health and wellness goals while recovering from an injury or surgery. Your mom or dad will participate in physical, occupational and speech therapies as they work toward specific outcomes. Assistance with ADLs is available during short-term rehabilitation, too. Your parent will learn techniques to continue their rehabilitation once they return home.
Benefits of Short-Term Rehabilitation
- Accelerated recovery times.
- Effective symptom and pain management
- Access to specialized therapists and care coordination
- Decreased risk of hospital readmission
What is Memory Care?
Your loved one may require memory care if their dementia or Alzheimer’s has impacted their ability to live alone. The rate of dementia continues to rise, meaning a greater demand for a higher level of round-the-clock care and supervision.
It might be time to consider memory care for your parent if at-home care has become too difficult or time-consuming. These facilities provide structured routines and daily activities in a secure environment to keep your loved one comfortable and safe.
Benefits of Memory Care
- Reduced isolation and enhanced security to prevent wandering
- Daily support from trained staff
- Safety measures to reduce the risk of injury and falls
- Dining programs designed to promote healthy eating
- Stimulating social and mental activities
Discover Comprehensive Senior Care at Embassy Healthcare
We conduct comprehensive assessments to determine which type of senior care would best suit your loved one. Learn about our locations in Ohio, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Florida and schedule a tour.
