As you start thinking about your options for long-term care, it’s natural to wish to remain in your home for as long as possible. Most people prefer to live independently in their homes for as long as they are able to do so. However, once you require assistance with performing daily tasks or you need more specialized medical care, you’ll need to consider the options available to you. If you or a loved one is interested in long-term care planning options that allow you to age in place, here is some basic information about various resources you may want to consider.
Working With an Aide
For aging individuals who are in need of additional assistance with certain household chores, such as preparing meals, running errands, housecleaning, or organizational tasks, or for help with bathing, dressing, or other personal care, working with an aide can be a reliable and cost-effective way to remain in one’s home. You may decide to work with a home care agency that recruits, trains, compensates, and supervises each employee to ensure that you receive quality assistance from a state-licensed agency. Or, you may opt to privately hire, train, pay, and supervise an individual of your choosing. Low-income individuals may be able to work with a volunteer agency that provides assistance with certain chores, such as shopping, yard work, personal care, or transportation.
In-Home Skilled Nursing Care
As you age, you may develop a condition that requires occasional medical attention. If your doctor authorizes a home health care agency to oversee your medical care, a nurse or healthcare provider from a licensed agency can come to your home to administer injections, care for your wounds, or address a variety of medical needs you may have. Some individuals prefer to hire a nurse or therapist on their own, but it’s highly recommended that you ensure the person is highly qualified and dependable. Medicaid recipients may qualify to receive in-home nursing care via the Nurse Delegation Program.
Exploring Your Community
Living in your home as you age can give you the peace and reassurance you need to feel safe and secure. However, if you live by yourself, it’s fairly common to develop feelings of loneliness over time. You may wish to explore adult day centers in your area, which provide social services, activities, educational opportunities, basic health monitoring, nutritious meals, and more. You may also seek out a companion service, which matches you with a caring individual who can visit or call you regularly and provide you with conversation and emotional support. Senior centers offer several opportunities for senior citizens to gather, share a meal, participate in conversations, and form social connections. Whatever your goals may be, it’s worth it to take a look at the variety of services and programs available in your community.
To learn more about your long-term care planning options in Spokane Valley, reach out to the skilled and compassionate legal team at Legacy Law Group by calling (509) 315-8087 today.
