As people live longer, there’s a great opportunity to enjoy a “third stage of life.” But sometimes aging in place isn’t an option and the need for support services is imperative. It can be helpful to make a plan and give yourself time to consider which options are available.

 

If an elder has a functional network of family and friends, occasional help with things like home maintenance, housekeeping and transportation can be fairly easy to access. Still, allowing outside assistance can take the pressure off of family members who often go from the role of partners and children to caretakers.

 

Ashby Village is a Berkeley nonprofit that, for a nominal fee, connects members with resources and each other. A volunteer network provides many services, like rides and minor repairs.

 

Full-service agencies may be more costly, but they provide pre-screened applicants. Since the caregiver is employed by the agency, things like payroll taxes are covered. Plus, an agency can usually find a replacement quickly if the caregiver is unable to come to work.

 

Independent providers usually cost less but require more effort than a full-service agency. You’ll need to handle background checks and identity verification, as well as administrative requirements like taxes. In the case of illness or sudden termination, you’ll need to find alternate coverage.

 

Day programs can help with activities and socialization. Some of these are primarily social, while others specialize in conditions such as early stage Alzheimer’s. Adding these new experiences can lead to new friendships and possibilities.

 

If an older adult's care can’t be handled safely at home and the need for more help is apparent, moving to a different living situation may be necessary. It’s important to note that to enter an assisted living community, the individual must be ambulatory and without extensive medical needs or severe dementia.

 

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) provide different levels of care depending on the needs of the resident. The applicant pays an entrance fee plus a monthly fee which entitles the resident to an independent living apartment, followed by assisted living when needed, and eventually nursing care, during the lifetime of the resident.

 

Elder co-housing started in Denmark and the concept made its way here in the late 1980s. This is a multi-generational model where the residents create the rules and support each other. There are a few 55-plus co-housing buildings in the East Bay as well, including Phoenix Commons in Oakland.

 

Board and care homes typically accommodate between 6 and 20 residents and are less expensive than a large assisted living facility. They are licensed by the state and the caregiver staff have mandated annual training.

 

Long-term care facilities offer the most extensive level of senior care. Though often located in the same facility, a nursing home is oriented to rehabilitation, while long-term care is supportive but custodial. The Pioneer Network takes a forward-thinking approach to long-term care. They promote a "person directed" community culture that supports individual growth and self-determination.

 

There are some interesting innovations on the horizon for eldercare. Virtual reality tools can help with fitness and rehabilitation, and may even help calm people with advanced dementia. Wearables are already in use to assess and assist with many health conditions, balance problems and fall risks.

 

Our expansive and compassionate network may help you or a loved one navigate life’s changes. Contact us if we can be of assistance.