• Long-Term Care at Home

    Posted on August 20, 2024 by in Uncategorized

    Many older adults prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible, a term called “Aging in Place.” The great news is that more people can remain in their homes with careful planning, assistance from
    new technology and an understanding of caregiver roles.

    Here are some steps to make the home safer and easier to maintain for
    ease of use:

    • If stairs are difficult to maneuver, modify a main-floor den or office into a bedroom.
    • Move hard-to-reach items to lower, more accessible cabinets and drawers.
    • Consider installing a walk-in shower or ADA-compliant grab bars near the tub or shower.
    • Add fixtures and/or wireless battery-operated or USB-rechargeable LED lights to increase visibility along steps, under cabinets, in closets, and throughout the house.
    • To reduce fall hazards, remove area rugs and throw rugs. Only use secure, non-skid mats on tile and wood flooring.
    • Eliminate tripping hazards such as outstretched extension cords, landline phone cords, etc., and furniture or home accessories obstructing one’s path through a room.
    • Take advantage of technology such as medical alert systems with devices that can be worn on the wrist or around the neck; smart plug-ins and devices that allow one to call for help with a voice command from anywhere in the home; and monitoring/surveillance equipment that offers home protection and allows loved ones or neighbors to check in remotely if they are unable to reach their aged relative or friend.

    Since being a caretaker is a full-time job, aging in place often requires outside assistance, either full-time or part-time. Sometimes, a person attends adult daycare, which gives that person outside stimulation and socialization while a caregiver has time to themselves.

    Aging in place may mean having outside help come to the home. A hired caretaker provides services based on what is needed. For example, care may involve assisting the person with showering, getting dressed, and food preparation. The hired caretaker may do the shopping and take the person out and about for a change of scenery. They may help do things around the home that this person can no longer do safely or at all.

    Of course, this service comes at a cost. Home care services for the East Bay area average about $8,000 per month. Families that have not planned for this expense struggle with trying to DIY this challenging situation or draining finances. The financial aspects only compound a difficult enough situation.

    Purchasing Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) protects assets and families. There are different types of plans, and most can be customized to address different needs and budgets. Given that 70% of seniors will need assistance, do your family a favor and see what LTCI looks like for you and your loved ones. The support in accessing care and assistance with the cost will be a huge relief when the time comes.

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