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Providing resources to help Eastern Iowa seniors stay active, connected, healthy, and happy.
There are a lot of things to consider when deciding the best living situation for our loved ones or ourselves as we age. Most people would rather remain independent and in control of where they live. That may not be possible, as we age and things get harder to do alone. Abilities, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene, begin to decline. That is when you know it is time to consider other options.
Before you can know your options, you need to consider:
Staying at Home Options
Skilled Home Health Care - When ordered by a physician, most medical insurance and Medicare will play for a nurse, occupational, physical, or speech therapist to treat you in your own home.
Private Duty Care - Non-medical help can come from a private duty aid, in the form of meal preparation, bathing, transportation, and light housekeeping. Medicare may pay for this, if it is bundled with other types of care. Veteran's Aid and Attendance may also pay for this type of care.
Veteran's Aid and Attendance Benefits - Veterans and their spouses that meet eligibility requirements can receive care in their home or in a facility.
Private Health Insurance and Supplements - Check with your insurance provider for skilled care benefits, when researching options for staying at home.
Hospice - If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurance will pay for hospice care in your home.
Other Living Options
Assisted Living Facilities - Providing different levels of care, assisted living facilities offer meals, housekeeping, transportation, and activities.
Continuing Care Retirement Community - With a guarantee that you remain on the same campus for the rest of your life, these communities require a "buy in fee" and offer many levels of care.
Independent Living Community - Stay as independent as you want, but also have the option to purchase meals, housekeeping, transportation, and activities for a monthly fee. Services can increase as needs increase.
Active Adult Communities - Usually called 55+ communities, mobile homes, apartments, or single-family homes provide a community of older adults without the services or amenities.
Tour communities and facilities and review pricing, to narrow down your options. Review your insurance and financial situation with a professional to get a better understanding of what you can afford.
Click here for local senior living facilities.