When an older person needs care and can no longer live with full independence, the senior and his or her family are faced with a number of decisions to make. There is often a range of choices available such as assisted living, in-home care, or a skilled nursing facility, and the task of deciding what is right for the individual senior can seem overwhelming.
The decision may be difficult, but families do not have to face it alone. With Americans age 85 and older the fastest growing age group, millions of Americans are now struggling with this very issue, and there are a number of specialists that are available to assist them.
The exact type of assistance that is required depends on the needs of the individual senior and the family’s situation. Families may need to seek guidance from their family doctor, a financial planner, or an elder care specialist. Crucial assistance can be provided by an elder law attorney, who can provide services such as drafting documents that give power of attorney to a trusted family member so that medical and financial decisions can be made if the senior loses the capacity to make them.
A key factor in making a good decision on senior housing is advance planning. Too often families end up making a decision because of a crisis such as a health issue that has taken a turn for the worse. However, in many cases, the need for care can be predicted and planned for. If the family waits for a crisis to develop, they may not have time to consider all the options.
Ideally, the choice of a housing situation for a senior will come out of a series of family discussions that incorporate the senior’s needs and desires, the available options, and the family’s financial situation. Taking the time to consider the options, and seek expert counsel, can allow a family to craft a unique solution for the individual’s unique needs.
Learn more about our services by visiting www.elderlawnewyork.com.
Was this article of interest to you? If so, please LIKE our Facebook Page by clicking here.