At a certain point in their lives, our loved ones may need a level of care that family members are no longer able to provide. When that time comes, it’s going to be essential that you make some hard decisions. The more you know about different senior living options, the easier it’ll be when it comes to making a decision. Ultimately, you’ll be making a choice that is beneficial for both your loved one and yourself.
While doing your research on personal care homes, you will likely peruse family-type homes, independent living apartments, continuing care retirement communities, assisted living programs, nursing care homes, and more. There is no shortage of options for personal care homes, and you may end up dealing with information overload – it can be mind-boggling to learn that there are so many choices!
Let’s look at what is offered by some of these personal care homes to help with your decision-making process.
Personal Care Homes
Residential homes referred to by the term “personal care homes” are those which provide board and care for residents within the comfort of their space. You may also hear them referred to as “adult care homes” or “residential care homes,” and, for the most part, residents can choose from semi-private rooms or private ones. Frequently, with members living on the premises, these places are run by families.
From their respective state, a license will be obtained by the business. Most often they provide care for individuals numbering 2 to 10. Because of the size and the limited number of residents, they frequently provide good quality care in a more intimate environment. Just like assisted living communities, they’ve adapted the environment with safety features (i.e. emergency call buttons, wheelchair-friendly ramps, grab bars, safety rails, and one-on-one personalized care).
Benefits of Personal Care Homes
Large retirement communities aren’t for everyone, that’s true. For a smaller home-away-from-home feel, personal care homes can work out very well. Residents may be able to enjoy the company of children and pets, play games, have good meals, and maybe even partake in movie nights.
Naturally, compared to retirement communities, all the luxurious amenities and conveniences won’t necessarily be available. In addition, the level of care provided will be available morning, noon, and night.
Though not all personal care homes offer it, some provide environments where your loved one can age in place. Through the end of their life, they will be provided with successive care. Should a higher level of care suddenly be required, some homes can adapt to their needs.
Evaluating Personal Care Homes
Should you lean toward a small-scale environment like a personal care home, check for the following:
- Make sure they’re the real deal. Ask to see training certifications, state evaluation reports, licensing paperwork, etc.
- To see how your loved one will be treated, observe every team member you can to see how they relate to residents.
- Talk to residents, if you are allowed, to see whether or not they’re happy or if they have any complaints.
- Ask questions and then ask more questions. Talk about procedures, general rules, visiting hours, daily activities, and more.
Downsides to Small-Scale Personal Care Homes
Granted, there are lots of positives to your loved one living in a small-scale personal care home. But, as with almost anything in life, there are downsides to consider as well:
- Monotony
- Few opportunities for socialization
- Low quality of life
- Potential lack of personal relationships due to how personal care homes are organized
- Possible unsafe conditions due to understaffing
- Rising costs
- Families may experience inconveniences when trying to visit their loved one
- High rate of depression
In many instances, your loved one may be better off in a senior living community that offers different living choices such as independent living, personal care, and even memory care. Fortunately, we can recommend just such a place. This community offers numerous opportunities for socialization with events, day trips, entertainment, and more. The meals are nutritious and delicious and are served in a setting that rivals some four-star restaurants. Team members are plentiful, personable, and highly educated.
Senior Living at Discovery Village At Sugarloaf
Brought to you by Discovery Senior Living, Discovery Village At Sugarloaf provides the very best of personalized care services with retirement age lifestyle programs to deliver an experience that can be considered nothing less than exceptional.
Don’t take our word for it! Schedule a visit today. If you prefer, you can call us at 470.207.3392 to find out more about our exclusive programs. Be sure to check out what we have to offer and decide for yourself, the best circumstances for the quality of life and care of your loved one.
