Last week, NNV partnered with the Chevy Chase Community Association to offer a program on senior living options. Senior living expert Jennifer Brown, Iona social worker Lisa Rindner, and I shared a wealth of information. Here are some highlights:

Types of senior living:

• Independent Living – Independent Living communities offer a few amenities like housekeeping, meals, and social programming. Personal care is not included, but you can pay privately for home care aides to provide assistance. Independent Living communities offer rental options, as well as options to purchase the apartment.
• Assisted Living – Assisted living communities offer similar amenities to Independent Living, in addition to personal care and medication management. Some Assisted Living communities offer specialized care for people with memory loss. These communities are recommended for people whose dementia symptoms significantly impact their safety and ability to manage daily tasks without significant help. Many Assisted Living communities offer respite options that provide the opportunity to try out a community or receive temporary care following a surgery or other life circumstance.
• Nursing Care – Nursing home care offers skilled nursing services, personal care, as well as meals and activities. Medical care is provided by a physician who regularly visits the nursing home. If a resident runs out of money, the nursing home can help apply for Long Term Medicaid, which will cover the cost of care.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC’s) - CCRC’s offer all levels of care mentioned above. Most have an entrance fee and monthly fees thereafter. This option is often good for people who do not want to make a move if their care needs change or for couples with different care needs.

Resources:

Choosing the right community can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are helpful resources to make sense of it all. The Proaging SourceBook is a free publication that includes useful articles and a list of senior living options in the area. Click here to order a copy. If more personalized guidance is what you are looking for, an Aging Life Care professional can help. Click here to find an Aging Life Care professional near you. Specific information on local senior living options and cost ranges was shared at last week’s program. Click here to watch the video.

As a reminder, Northwest Neighbors Village is a great option for help with practical tasks like taking trash to the curb, grocery shopping, and rides. Our Village serves older neighbors wherever they call home, including senior living communities. Visit our website to learn more.