No one ever wants to admit that their own life is beyond their control. You've taken care of yourself for decades, and maybe even had pride in your independence. Giving that up is incredibly challenging for anyone, but it can also come with confusion on what steps to take next. Let's talk about some possible next phases of your life and how you can gracefully transition into letting others help take care of you.
Move into a Nursing Home
Nursing homes provide an array of services and amenities that are designed to help seniors maintain their independence while providing them with the extra support they need. For starters, moving into a nursing home often means having access to round-the-clock medical care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as meals, bathing, and dressing. This doesn't mean that you need to use these services; only that they are available if you need them. Finally, it means that you have access to social activities and opportunities to interact with other people in a safe environment.
Get Home Health Aid
When you can no longer manage daily living tasks on your own, many people opt to get Home Health Aid. This form of home care is essential for those who are looking to continue aging in place in their own homes, and gives them the opportunity to enjoy a higher quality of life for as long as possible. Home Health Aid offers a wide range of services, from basic assistance with the activities of daily living - such as bathing and dressing - to more specialized care like wound care and medication management. Home Health Aid can also help interpret doctor’s orders, provide physical therapy, and coordinate medical appointments. When selecting a Home Health Aid agency, it is important to make sure they are certified by Medicare and have a proven track record of providing quality care.
Move in With a Family Member
One of the options available to those who can no longer take care of themselves is to move in with a family member. This option may be appealing for those who have a strong emotional tie or connection to their family, as well as for those who are looking for companionship and support. If you choose to move in with a family member, it is important to make sure that both parties understand the full scope of what will be required to provide adequate care. This can include everything from making sure that medical and financial needs are met, to providing emotional support.
It can be really difficult to admit that you need help. However, if you are unable to take care of yourself and your basic needs, it may be time to start looking into next steps. There are a lot of options available and it is important to do some research in order to find the best one for you.
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