There are many options when it comes to choosing the right care for your senior. The best way to make this process simple is by starting early and creating a plan to help you along the way. According to the Administration for Community Living’s 2020 Profile of Older Americans, 16 percent of the United States’ population in 2019 was 65 years old or older. That’s 54.1 million people, more than one in every seven Americans.
While there is an ever-growing demand for senior care services, there are also a variety of services available to fit each senior’s specific needs. That’s why it’s important to do thorough research and ask questions to find the care that’s right for your loved one.
Here are a few things to consider:
- Your Loved One’s Needs
- Budget
- Location
Your Loved One’s Needs
Every senior’s needs vary significantly. Do they require help with day-to-day tasks like meal preparation or personal care? Are you or other family members already providing them assistance? What are their preferences? These are just a few questions you can consider throughout this process.
To accurately access their needs, you can start by talking to your loved one’s doctor. This way, you are fully aware of their physical and mental health and can relay this information to any service providers you may be considering. Be sure to involve your loved ones during your research so that they can voice any concerns and guide your search in the right direction.
Budget
Senior care expenses vary greatly by the type of service and location. According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care Survey, the annual national median cost for a
nursing home private room in 2021 was $108,405 while the annual national median cost for assisted living facility care services in 2021 was $54,000. They also found that the median yearly cost of in-home care in the United States in 2021 was $61,776 for a home health aide and $59,488 for homemaker services.
These numbers are important to keep in mind while considering various services along with the types of financial assistance available in your state. For example, in Tenessee, Medicaid is available to residents who need help paying for health care. But your loved one must meet the financial eligibility requirements in order to qualify for long-term benefits. Providers may also be able to work with your long-term care insurance and other programs.
Contact us to learn more about the cost of our in-home care services.
Location
Depending on you, your senior, and other family members, the location of the service is a crucial part of your search. If choosing a senior living facility, you can narrow your search by looking at ideal cities or neighborhoods. You’ll also want to consider things like walkability, accessibility, and safety rankings. Be sure to factor in your budget when considering locations.
Another option is keeping your loved one in their home and receiving care from a nurse or caregiver. With in-home care, your senior can stay in place and alleviates the stress of moving to a brand new space. Keeping your loved one in their home can help them maintain their independence while still receiving the supervision, assistance, and support that they need.
Let Bluebird Homecare Help
If you’re considering in-home care for your senior, Bluebird Homecare can help. Our mission is to make healthy, independent living in the home possible. We work with you and your loved one to develop a customized care plan that provides them with the level of support they need and review the plan on a regular basis to adjust it as necessary.
Contact us today for a free, in-home consultation to learn how Bluebird may be able to your loved one safely remain in their own home, while still enjoying the freedom and independence that is so important to us all.