Best Practices for Seniors and Knowing When It’s Time to Transition

Aging doesn’t have to mean giving up the comforts of home or independence. In fact, many seniors are choosing to age in place, enjoying the freedom and familiarity of their own surroundings for as long as safely possible. With the right strategies and support, maintaining independence at home can be both realistic and fulfilling. However, it’s also important to recognize the signs when a transition to a senior living community may be the safer and more supportive option.

Best Practices for Staying Independent at Home

1. Prioritize Home Safety
Making small changes can have a big impact. Install grab bars in bathrooms, remove trip hazards like loose rugs, improve lighting, and consider adding a medical alert system for emergencies. A home safety evaluation from an occupational therapist or aging-in-place specialist can help identify personalized solutions.

2. Embrace Technology
From medication reminder apps and voice-activated assistants to video doorbells and telehealth appointments, today’s technology can empower seniors to manage daily tasks independently and stay connected with loved ones.

3. Stay Physically Active
Maintaining mobility and strength through regular exercise is crucial. Simple routines like daily walks, chair yoga, or tai chi can improve balance and flexibility, reducing fall risk and boosting confidence in daily activities.

4. Maintain a Routine
Sticking to a consistent daily schedule provides structure and can reduce feelings of isolation or forgetfulness. Planning meals, regular chores, and social engagements helps seniors stay engaged and in control of their day.

5. Build a Support Network
Even independent seniors benefit from a trusted circle of support. Family members, neighbors, community volunteers, or hired caregivers can check in regularly, assist with errands, and help monitor changes in health or behavior.

6. Know Your Limits and Ask for Help
Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Whether it’s hiring someone to help with housecleaning or having groceries delivered, outsourcing certain tasks can preserve energy for what matters most.

When It May Be Time to Consider a Senior Living Community

While aging at home is a goal for many, there may come a time when more structured support is necessary. Recognizing the signs early can help ensure a smooth transition and improved quality of life.

1. Increased Falls or Near Misses
Frequent trips, falls, or unsteadiness are red flags. If mobility challenges begin to limit daily activities, a senior living environment may offer safer, more supportive accommodations.

2. Difficulty Managing Medications
If you or your loved one is forgetting doses, mixing up medications, or struggling to keep prescriptions filled, it could indicate the need for supervised care.

3. Poor Nutrition or Weight Loss
Cooking and eating well can become challenging with age. If there’s evidence of spoiled food, skipped meals, or weight loss, assisted living communities can ensure balanced, daily nutrition.

4. Personal Hygiene Decline
Neglected grooming, dirty laundry, or an unclean home may suggest that daily routines are becoming overwhelming, and support is needed.

5. Social Isolation
A decline in social engagement can lead to loneliness and depression. If getting out of the house feels too difficult or unsafe, a community setting can provide built-in companionship and activities.

6. Cognitive Decline
Forgetfulness, confusion, or wandering behavior could be signs of memory impairment. Memory care or assisted living communities offer tailored environments to support cognitive health.

Staying independent at home is achievable with careful planning and a proactive approach to health and safety. However, recognizing the signs that more support is needed is just as important. Choosing to move into a senior living community isn’t about giving up independence—it’s about gaining the right kind of help to thrive. Whether aging at home or considering a new living arrangement, the goal is always the same: to ensure safety, dignity, and a life filled with purpose and connection.

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Honoring the Progress and Needs of LGBTQ+ Seniors in Senior Living Communities

As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important not only to honor the trailblazers who fought for equality, but also to recognize the ongoing needs and achievements of the LGBTQ+ older adult community—many of whom were on the front lines of those early fights. Today, many senior living communities across the nation are making strides to better serve and support this vibrant and resilient population.

A Lifetime of Resilience

Many LGBTQ+ seniors came of age in a time when being open about their identity could result in job loss, rejection from family, criminalization, or worse. As a result, some older adults still carry the emotional weight of decades spent in silence or isolation. Now aging into retirement, these individuals face a new set of challenges—particularly around finding safe, inclusive environments where they can age with dignity, acceptance, and community.

Progress in Senior Living: From Marginalization to Inclusion

Until recently, LGBTQ+ seniors often reported feeling unwelcome or invisible in traditional senior housing environments. But in the last decade, a noticeable shift has occurred. Senior living communities are increasingly recognizing the need for inclusivity and have begun transforming their operations, amenities, and policies to reflect that understanding.

Key Improvements in LGBTQ+ Inclusivity:

• Cultural Competency Training: Many facilities now provide staff education on LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and best practices to help ensure respectful and affirming care. This includes understanding unique health risks and social experiences faced by LGBTQ+ seniors.

• Inclusive Marketing and Policies: More communities are updating their non-discrimination policies and marketing materials to be visibly inclusive of LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, signaling safety and acceptance from the start.

• LGBTQ+ Resident Support Groups: Recognizing the importance of community, some facilities now offer dedicated social groups or events for LGBTQ+ residents, providing spaces to share experiences and build friendships.

• Celebrating Pride and Identity: Increasingly, senior living communities are actively participating in Pride Month celebrations, hosting inclusive events and flying rainbow flags to show solidarity with residents and staff.

• LGBTQ+-Focused Communities: A small but growing number of retirement communities are being developed specifically with LGBTQ+ older adults in mind—offering not only physical amenities but a deeply rooted culture of inclusion and acceptance.

Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive Future

While much progress has been made, challenges remain. According to advocacy groups like SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders), many LGBTQ+ seniors still report fears of discrimination in long-term care settings. Continued education, advocacy, and structural changes are essential to ensuring that every aging adult can feel seen and supported.

As we honor Pride Month, let us celebrate not only how far we’ve come—but commit to building a future where LGBTQ+ seniors never have to go back into the closet to receive care. Because everyone deserves to age with pride.

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Your Next Chapter Starts Here

Retirement is not the end—it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Where you choose to live during this time can have a profound impact on your comfort, happiness, and overall well-being. Retirement living communities offer more than just housing; they provide a lifestyle designed to support autonomy while offering access to services and amenities that enrich daily life. Whether you’re downsizing, seeking a social atmosphere, or planning ahead for peace of mind, finding the right retirement living community is a meaningful step toward a secure and fulfilling future.

Key Considerations for a Smooth Transition

1. Define Your Ideal Lifestyle

Retirement living should enhance your day-to-day life, not limit it. Ask yourself what kind of lifestyle will make you happiest.

• Do you enjoy group activities, events, and social outings?
• Or do you value solitude and quiet surroundings?
• Would you prefer a vibrant, city-based setting or a peaceful suburban or rural retreat?

Each community has its own personality. Some feel like bustling neighborhoods with full calendars of events, while others focus on tranquility and personal space.

Action Item:
Make a list of your must-haves—like weekly social events, walking paths, on-site dining, or access to a fitness center. Rank these by priority and bring your list with you during tours to help stay focused.

2. Assess Financial Feasibility

Understanding the cost structure is crucial. Pricing models can vary:

• Rental communities typically require a monthly fee that may include meals, housekeeping, and activities.
• Buy-in communities often charge an entrance fee upfront, followed by monthly maintenance fees.
• Some communities may also offer life care contracts, which guarantee access to increased levels of care later in life.

Be sure to evaluate:

• What’s included in the base rate?
• Are utilities, meals, transportation, or housekeeping extra?
• How do costs compare to your current living expenses?

Action Item:
Create a detailed monthly budget that includes not only the cost of living in the community but also your regular expenses (like prescriptions, insurance, hobbies, etc.). Consider consulting a financial advisor who specializes in retirement planning to assess long-term affordability.

3. Choose the Right Location

Location isn’t just about scenery—it’s about access.

• Do you want to be near children or grandchildren?
• Is it important to be close to a preferred hospital or healthcare provider?
• Would you like access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions?

Also consider climate, public transportation, walkability, and crime rates. Even communities in the same metro area can offer vastly different experiences.

Action Item:
Spend a day in the neighborhood outside the community. Visit the grocery store, walk in nearby parks, and test commute times to the doctor or favorite venues.

4. Plan for Future Healthcare Needs

While retirement living focuses on autonomy, it’s wise to plan for changes in health. Many communities offer or are connected to higher levels of care, such as:

• Assisted living for help with daily tasks like bathing or medication management.
• Skilled nursing for medical care and rehabilitation.
• Memory care for residents with cognitive impairments.

Some offer a seamless transition within the same campus, while others partner with nearby providers.

Action Item:
Ask if the community is part of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) and what that means for future access and costs. Learn about staff credentials, emergency procedures, and how residents are supported in medical situations.

5. Prioritize Social and Recreational Opportunities

Staying socially engaged can improve cognitive health, reduce feelings of isolation, and boost your mood.

Look for offerings such as:

• Book clubs
• Gardening groups
• Art and music classes
• Fitness classes like yoga or tai chi
• Volunteer opportunities
• Excursions and travel clubs

These aren’t just perks—they’re part of building a thriving and connected lifestyle.

Action Item:
Join a resident-led activity or community event, even just once. Ask residents about their experience and whether new residents feel welcomed and supported.

6. Evaluate Housing and Amenities

Independent living communities come in many shapes and sizes, from high-rise apartments to single-level cottages. Features to consider include:

• Floor plan layouts (open concept vs. traditional)
• Kitchen size and appliance upgrades
• Washer/dryer availability
• Accessibility (walk-in showers, wide doorways, elevators)
• Outdoor spaces like patios or walking trails
• On-site salons, libraries, chapels, and wellness centers

Action Item:
Ask to tour multiple unit types within the same community. Take photos and notes to compare later. Don’t hesitate to ask how maintenance, housekeeping, and repairs are handled.

7. Understand Community Rules and Policies

Each community has its own culture and set of rules. Some may be very flexible, while others have firm guidelines.

Common topics to ask about:

• Pet policies and breed restrictions
• Guest and visitor rules
• Quiet hours
• Parking regulations
• Smoking policies
• Resident councils or committees

Also inquire about security protocols, camera monitoring, and procedures for natural disasters or medical emergencies.

Action Item:
Request a resident handbook or policy packet. Read through it thoroughly to ensure your values align with the community culture.

Retirement Living: It’s About More Than a Place—It’s About Peace of Mind

Choosing a retirement living community is a personal journey. It’s not just about downsizing your space—it’s about upgrading your lifestyle. You deserve a home that matches your goals, supports your independence, and offers confidence in the future. When you take the time to define your ideal lifestyle, understand your budget, and ask the right questions, you empower yourself to make a well-informed decision.

Search for a Retirement Living Community near you on CareAvailability.com.

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Starting the Conversation about Moving a Loved One into Memory Care

It’s a conversation no one looks forward to having. The moment when you realize that your loved one’s memory loss has progressed to a point where they require specialized care. It’s a tough decision, laden with emotions, concerns, and uncertainties. However, delaying the discussion won’t make the situation any easier. Initiating this conversation early on can lead to a softer, more personalized, and smoother transition for everyone involved. So, how do you start the dialogue about moving a loved one into memory care? Let’s explore some approaches with insights to navigate this sensitive topic.

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize when memory care becomes necessary. Memory care communities of caring are designed to provide specialized support for people with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These specialized dementia care residences offer personalized care, including structured routines, cognitive stimulation, and 24/7 supervision, to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

Family or friends may start observing signs that could indicate it may be time to consider seeking options for memory care.

• Safety concerns: If your loved one is frequently getting lost, experiencing falls, or exhibiting wandering behavior, it may be unsafe for them to continue living at home without constant supervision.

• Increased caregiving challenges: As cognitive decline progresses, the demands of caregiving can become overwhelming for family members. If you find yourself struggling to meet your loved one’s needs or experiencing caregiver burnout, it may be time to explore alternative care options.

• Decline in daily functioning: Difficulty with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and managing medications, can indicate the need for a higher level of care than can be provided at home.

What’s a good approach for initiating this conversation?

Bringing up the subject of moving into memory care requires sensitivity, empathy, and clear communication. Here’s a little advice for getting this sometimes-difficult conversation started:

• Choose the right time and place: Find a quiet, relaxed environment to have this private conversation without distractions. Avoid bringing up the topic during times of stress or conflict.

• Discuss using empathetic language: Express your love and concern and actively listen to your loved one’s feelings and concerns without judgment. Be honest about how hard this decision is for everyone involved.

• Emphasize the focus on their safety and quality of life: The primary goal of moving into memory care is to ensure their safety and well-being. Frame the conversation around the benefits of receiving specialized care in a supportive environment.

• Engage your loved one in the decision-making process: Whenever possible, respect their preferences and wishes. Help them understand the reasons behind the need for memory care and involve them in touring communities of caring and making choices about their new living arrangements.

It’s natural for your loved one to have concerns and questions about moving into memory care. Addressing these apprehensions with honesty and transparency can help alleviate some of their fears.

What are some common concerns and how can they be addressed?

• Fear of losing independence: Reassure your loved one that memory care communities of caring are designed to promote independence within a safe and supportive environment. Emphasize that staff members are there to assist with activities of daily living while encouraging residents to remain as self-sufficient as possible.

• Worries about losing connection with family: Assure your loved one that moving into memory care doesn’t mean losing connection with family and friends. Share how the family and friends will visit regularly, and make phone calls, and they will continue to participate in family activities to maintain social connections and support.

• Concerns about unfamiliar surroundings: Moving to a new environment can be intimidating, especially for individuals with memory loss. Take time to tour memory care communities of caring together, allowing your loved one to become familiar with the surroundings and meet staff members before making a decision. Work with the community and staff to attend events and activities before moving in to provide a level of familiarity and comfort.

• Financial considerations: Discuss the financial aspects of memory care openly, based on the abilities of your loved one to understand. As a decision maker, explore options for funding, such as long-term care insurance, Veterans benefits, family assets, or Medicaid, and seek guidance from financial advisors or elder law attorneys if needed.

Once the decision to move into memory care has been made, the transition process can be challenging for the individual and their family members. Here are some tips for making the transition as smooth as possible:

• Involve the memory care staff: How can you involve the memory care staff effectively? Share essential information about your loved one’s medical history, routines, and preferences to ensure continuity of care. Additionally, include details about important people in their life and favorite stories, treating them as a whole person rather than just a diagnosis.

• Create a familiar environment: Bring familiar items from home, such as photos, keepsakes, and favorite belongings, to help your loved one feel more comfortable in their new surroundings. Establishing routines and maintaining familiar rituals can also provide a sense of stability and security.

• Stay involved and supportive: Continue to be actively involved in your loved one’s life after they move into memory care. Visit regularly, participate in activities together, and advocate for their needs to ensure they receive the highest quality of whole-person care.

• Take care of yourself: Caring for a loved one with memory loss can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Remember to prioritize self-care and seek support from healthcare professionals, support groups, and memory care communities of caring to help you navigate the challenges of caregiving.

Sarah’s Story

She is a vibrant woman who has always been the life of the party. She loved hosting family gatherings, where her warmth and energy lit up the room. However, as Sarah’s dementia progressed, her family began to notice subtle changes in her behavior. She would forget names, misplace belongings, and become disoriented in familiar places. Concerned for her safety, Sarah’s family knew it was time to discuss memory care.

Sarah’s daughter, Emily was tentative to bring this up to her mom. She worried about how she would react and whether she would feel abandoned. However, intuitively Emily knew that delaying this conversation would only prolong her mom’s vulnerability. With a heavy heart, Emily sat down with her mom and gently broached the topic of moving into a memory care community of caring.

To her relief and surprise, Sarah was more receptive than she anticipated. Though apprehensive about leaving her home, Sarah acknowledged her increasing struggles and expressed a desire for support. Together, they visited several memory care communities of caring and found one where they both felt welcomed and reassured by the compassionate staff.

As Sarah settled into her new home, Emily remained actively involved, visiting her daily on her way home from work. They ate dinner together several times a week and other family members visited on the weekends. Though the transition had its challenges, with a few tears and laughter intermingled, Sarah found comfort in the familiar faces and routines of her new community of caring…as did Emily.

Starting the conversation about moving a loved one into memory care is never easy, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring their safety, well-being, and quality of life. By approaching the discussion with empathy, honesty, and sensitivity, you can help ease the transition for your loved one and ensure they receive the care and support they need. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey.

Reach out to healthcare professionals, support groups, and memory care communities of caring for guidance and assistance every step of the way.

Here are some support groups for individuals with family members diagnosed with Alzheimer’s/Other dementia’s

Alzheimer’s Association

• Website: alz.org

Dementia Society of America

• Website: dementiasociety.org

National Institute on Aging

• Website: nia.nih.gov

These are just a few options, and there may be more available depending on your specific location. It’s always a good idea to check with local hospitals, community centers, or senior centers for additional support group options.

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Caregivers often bear the responsibility of providing transportation, with over 40 percent of older and disabled adults relying on family, friends, or neighbors for rides. A 2021 survey by the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC), administered by USAging and Easterseals, found that around three-quarters of caregivers list providing or arranging transport as one of their primary duties.

According to USAging, the national association for Area Agencies on Aging, approximately 600,000 older adults give up driving each year. This transition can create challenges for aging or ill loved ones, making it harder for them to attend medical appointments, shop for necessities, visit family, or participate in social events. Consequently, this increased isolation negatively impacts their health and well-being.

To address these challenges, it’s important to explore alternative transportation options. While available services vary by location, several programs and services are generally accessible across the country to help older and disabled individuals maintain their independence and social connections.

Understanding Different Services

Transportation plays a crucial role in maintaining the independence and quality of life for seniors. As individuals age, driving may become more challenging or even impossible due to health issues or other limitations. Fortunately, there are various transportation options specifically designed to meet the needs of older adults.

From public transit and paratransit services to ride-sharing apps and volunteer driver programs, seniors have access to a range of choices that can help them stay connected, access essential services, and remain active in their communities. Understanding these options is key to ensuring that seniors can continue to live independently and engage in meaningful activities as they age.

Public Transit

Fixed-route public transit refers to a transportation system with predetermined routes, schedules, and stops, such as buses, trains, or trolleys. These services operate along fixed paths, picking up and dropping off passengers at designated stops along the way.

For seniors and individuals with disabilities, fixed-route public transit can be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, providing access to essential services, activities, and destinations within a community. However, there are navigational and accessibility-related challenges that may arise for these populations when using fixed-route public transit. To address these challenges, many fixed-route public transit systems offer specialized services or accommodations for seniors and individuals with disabilities:

1. Priority Seating: Individuals with mobility impairments may  find it challenging to board or disembark from vehicles, especially at stops without accessible features. Reserved seating near the front of vehicles can mitigate challenges for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
2. Accessibility Features: Waiting for and riding on fixed-route transit vehicles can be physically demanding for some seniors and individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mobility issues. Vehicles equipped with ramps, lifts, and other features can better accommodate mobility devices.
3. Travel Training: Seniors and individuals with cognitive impairments may find it difficult to navigate the fixed-route system, including understanding schedules, routes, and transfer points. These programs provide instruction on how to use the fixed-route system safely and independently.

Paratransit Services

Paratransit services are specialized transportation services designed to meet the needs of individuals who are unable to use traditional fixed-route public transit due to a disability or condition. These services are typically provided as a complement to regular public transit and are mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for public transit agencies in the United States.

Paratransit services offer door-to-door or curb-to-curb transportation for individuals who are unable to access or navigate traditional buses or trains. This includes individuals with mobility impairments, visual or hearing impairments, cognitive disabilities, or other conditions that prevent them from using regular public transit.

To use paratransit services, individuals must typically qualify based on their disability or condition, as defined by the ADA. Once eligible, passengers can schedule rides in advance, usually with a designated paratransit provider. The provider will then pick up the passenger from their location and transport them to their destination.

Paratransit vehicles are often equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, such as wheelchair ramps, lifts, and securement systems. Drivers are trained to assist passengers with boarding, securing mobility devices, and other needs they may have during the trip.

Demand Response Services

Demand response transportation services for seniors, also known as Dial-a-Ride or paratransit services, provide flexible and on-demand transportation options for older adults who may have difficulty using traditional public transit. These services are typically operated by public transit agencies or private companies and are designed to meet the specific needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services typically operate through the following formats:

1. Reservation-Based: Seniors can request transportation by calling a designated phone number or using an online booking system. Reservations are usually required in advance, typically 24 hours or more. 
2. Flexible Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Unlike fixed-route public transit, demand response services offer more flexibility in terms of pick-up and drop-off locations. Seniors can be picked up from their homes or other specified locations and dropped off at their destination.
3. Shared Rides: Demand response services often operate on a shared-ride basis, meaning that multiple passengers may be picked up and dropped off along the same route. This helps maximize efficiency and reduce costs.
4. Accessible Vehicles: Vehicles used for demand response services are often wheelchair-accessible and equipped with features to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges.
5. Affordable or Subsidized Fare: While fares for demand response services may vary, many agencies offer discounted fares for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT)

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is a specialized service that provides transportation for individuals who require medical services but do not have access to personal vehicles or other means of transportation. NEMT services are typically used by individuals who need to travel to medical appointments, such as doctor visits, dialysis treatments, physical therapy sessions, and other non-emergency medical appointments.

NEMT services are often covered by Medicaid, private insurance, or Medicare Advantage plans, although coverage and eligibility criteria may vary. NEMT providers may include taxis, wheelchair-accessible vans, or vehicles dispatched by specialty brokers or community groups.

To use NEMT services, individuals typically need to schedule their transportation in advance, usually at least 24 hours before their appointment. The transportation provider will then pick them up from their home or another designated location and take them to their medical appointment. After the appointment, the provider will return them to their original location.

NEMT services often include accommodations for individuals with disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance with boarding and disembarking. Providers may also offer door-to-door service for individuals who need assistance getting in and out of vehicles or navigating through buildings.

Ride-Sharing and Taxi Services

Ride-sharing and taxi services can be valuable transportation options for seniors, offering flexibility and convenience for those who may not drive or have access to public transit. These services can help seniors maintain their independence, stay connected with their communities, and access essential services and activities.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, as well as traditional taxi services, offer on-demand transportation, allowing seniors to request rides quickly and easily using a smartphone app or by calling a taxi company. Many ride-sharing companies and taxi services offer accessible vehicles and accommodations for passengers with disabilities or mobility challenges, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Ride-sharing and taxi services can be a flexible transportation option for seniors, allowing them to travel at their own pace and schedule, without the constraints of fixed routes or schedules. Using ride-sharing and taxi services can help seniors stay engaged with their communities, allowing them to attend social events, visit friends and family, and access local services and amenities.

Click here for full article and to see a full list of resources by state.

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Our living conditions become important variables for health and happiness as our gray hairs fall after retiring. Along with our graying hair comes the complexity of retirement housing, considering that rational decisions must be made in this essential life field.

The decision influences financial instability and total satisfaction level; some options include downsizing while other age-friendly communities. In consideration of the advantages that come with using a National Association of Realtors or SRES-trained real estate agent, we will analyze different retirement homeownership alternatives bearing in mind their special needs as seniors.

We strive, as specifically as an SRES expert, to provide you and your seniors with all possible confidence arising from a knowledge of disparities and opportunities within the senior real estate market.

Exploring Senior Housing Options

Looking to buy a house for your family member or maybe your future self as you age? With the assistance of an SRES awarded by the National Association of Realtors or NAR, you can investigate senior housing opportunities and adult needs.

The Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation is a certification that shows real estate agents can better serve senior homeowners. They can also help you understand the ins and outs of the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA).

If you don’t get the support of an SRES, you can still learn everything there is to know in the field of senior independent living.

Navigating senior housing options does not have to look complex knowing key information on retirement living options can help one make an informed decision. There are a diverse number of housing options which range from active adult communities based upon various requirements styles and also our priceless experience.

The Financial Considerations

There are several factors that have to be taken into consideration for active adults who are more than 50 years old, but one important factor is your finances, like payments and loan schemes.

A crucial step for a broker and the individual should be the assessment of their current property to ensure smart home selling. If there is a plan to sell the current home, they must consider improving curb appeal to market trends analysis.

Seniors may also be interested in reverse mortgages, which can provide immediate cash flow but have long-term implications, including the potential to limit their options down the road and can be an expensive way to borrow. Additionally, senior relocation services can greatly simplify transportation for seniors but these typically come with a fee.

Finding the Right Location

Once you’ve figured out your financial options, you can start deciding on location.

If you’re looking for a new place to live in, assess the proximity to medical services as this should be a primary factor. Assess the pedestrian airport connectivity, public transport, and leisure provision in line with individual preferences. Take a look at the overall area — are there nearby communities to be involved in? Easily accessible malls, groceries, hospitals, and more?

On a more personal level, do you want to be close to your family or friends? Consider this in your downsize or purchase.

If you want to move to senior-centric communities, make sure they include some (if not all) the following elements:

Aging in Place: Making Your Home Senior-Friendly

If you want to “age in place”, houses have to become an environment that would promote accessibility and safety. Some easy yet innovative changes to the existing residence for seniors can significantly change their lives. The strategies below can help avoid potential hazards in advance:

Legal and Estate Planning

When it comes to purchasing in active older adult communities, decisions around senior real estate such as wills and property rights issues are related to Internal Retirement Account or IRAs. The creation of a detailed estate plan can help tackle the few mentioned issues, including the allocation to property, and tax avoidance among others using wills or trustees.

Wills are legal documents outlining the distribution of an individual’s assets possibly including active adult community houses upon death. Trusts allow a person to administer assets in a much better fashion — confidential and flexible — mostly avoiding probate. They both perform essential functions in ensuring that assets are successfully transferred to heirs and beneficiaries.

A more experienced lawyer can further help deal with issues that may come up such as Medicaid planning, long-term care measures, and pondering about suitable loan schemes spanning the age bracket of 50 years old and above.

Navigating Real Estate Transactions

Your real estate agent should understand the peculiar circumstances and issues you personally have as a senior (or a future senior), and lead you through every stage of purchasing and selling transactions.

This includes property inspections, paperwork management, or closing processes facilitated by the agent. Senior citizens should be informed in every decision and transaction made.

For example, for those intending to sell, the senior should know the valuation of a property plus its preparation and presentation when it will be up for sale. For the seniors who are looking to purchase a new property, an informed SRES agent should be consulted based on the senior’s wishes, budget, and need for necessary features that make them accessible, and align this when transacting.

In both instances, a credible property agent can assist in accelerating this process.

Addressing Emotional and Lifestyle Considerations

One of the aspects that can easily be overlooked is the emotional and lifestyle principles behind real estate options for senior citizens — aging changes bring change in living situations, whether it be downsizing or assisted community home moving creating a variety of feelings.

As retirees, seniors may feel nostalgic as well as sadness or fear of the new things they have to adapt to in relation to buying and selling their homes.

Providing opportunities for open communication with family members or friends, chatting with a therapist, and participating in some sort of social life would alleviate the loneliness that might be encountered during adaptation to senior homeownership. This should follow suit when they find their new home, where their connections to family, and friends, new or old, should remain.

Understanding the Continuum of Care

Understanding the continuum of care is integral to making good decisions in senior real estate needs. Continuum of Care means guiding and monitoring aged individuals’ health and well-being through a system.

Specialist centers for housing the elderly provide a range of care programs that adapt according to the changing financial needs as well as lifestyles among home sellers and buyers allowing them to change levels in case.

According to the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL), assisted living provides a number of services in daily activities such as food preparation, and medication management that address real estate issues and requirements.

The most common activities of daily living that residents need assistance with include bathing and walking. Medication management is another essential service provided in assisted living to ensure the proper administration of medications to residents.

Knowing Your Rights and Protections

The advantages of working with specialized agents who are certified to meet the needs of adults over the age of 50 in senior-specific housing and real estate requirements include giving you knowledge of your rights and protections.

This starts with noting the level or kind of legal protection they receive under the housing laws.

Buyers’ rights and the Fair Housing Act protect senior home buyers from discrimination and unfair treatment in both national and cooperating associations outside the U.S. The Act prohibits discrimination based on various factors, including age, in the sale, rental, and financing of housing.

Seniors can make wise decisions free from abuse or favoritism with the assistance of a specialized real estate agent only if they correctly understand housing laws.

An example of a form of legal protection available is that it exempts three types of housing for older persons from liability for familial status discrimination. When seniors know their rights, they’ll have a clear picture of their needs and realistic properties that meet their tastes in retirement years.

Resources and Support for Informed Decisions

Various institutes of NAR, which support 1.5 million members, can provide resources and support to the already large number of seniors who made property decisions. There are several groups and bodies such as Seniors Real Estate Specialists that help with the various aspects of managing senior real estate traffic, including legal consultation, financial planning to housing among many others.

They support the use of various available resources such as the American Association of Retired Persons or the AARP, local senior centers, and legal aid agencies that specialize in needs related to housing for the older population.

By working with SRES agents, it is guaranteed that senior home buyers and sellers make informed decisions based on their needs.

For more insight on the selling and moving experience, check out this informative article at https://www.squarefoothomes.com/blog/home-selling/when-should-seniors-sell-their-home/ to gain valuable guidance and ensure a smooth transition into this new chapter of life.

Conclusion

In sum, investing in real estate requires a blend of knowledge-based decisions with an individual touch and visibility. As home buyers and sellers, senior citizens have the ability to find a housing type that will fit them best; they can also easily identify financial, legal as well as emotional concerns present in moving.

Nevertheless, the relevance of using credible sources like authorized real estate agents who work with good-standing seniors in a cooperating union should not be forgotten. In this transformation journey, make changes that coincide with your views of a happier retirement using help from local agents.

Beyond support from SRES, you can attend a class that will enable you to have the required knowledge, such as loan plans for older people interested in buying property. Your interest and comfort should be your top priority, alongside making the process of buying and selling real estate easier for you as you or your loved ones get closer to the golden years.

The post The Golden Years: Navigating the Real Estate Landscape for Seniors appeared first on CareAvailability.

Long-term care is a variety of services and supports to meet health or personal care needs over an extended period of time. Most long-term care is non-skilled personal care assistance, such as help performing everyday Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), which are:

The goal of long-term care services is to help you maximize your independence and functioning at a time when you are unable to be fully independent.

Who Needs Long-Term Care?

Long-term care is needed when you have a chronic illness or disability that causes you to need assistance with Activities of Daily Living. Your illness or disability could include a problem with memory loss, confusion, or disorientation. (This is called Cognitive Impairment and can result from conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.)

This year, about 9 million Americans over the age of 65 will need long-term care services. By 2020, that number will increase to 12 million. While most people who need long-term care are age 65 or older, a person can need long-term care services at any age. Forty (40) percent of people currently receiving long-term care are adults 18 to 64 years old.

What Are My Risks of Needing Long-Term Care?

About 60 percent of individuals over age 65 will require at least some type of long-term care services during their lifetime. Over 40 percent will need care in a nursing home for some period of time. Factors that increase your risk of needing long-term care are:

• Age – The risk generally increases as you get older.
• Marital Status – Single people are more likely to need care from a paid provider.
• Gender – Women are at a higher risk than men, primarily because they tend to live longer.
• Lifestyle – Poor diet and exercise habits can increase your risk.
• Health and Family History – also impact your risk.

How Much Care Might I Need?

It is difficult to predict how much or what type of care any one person might need. On average, someone age 65 today will need some long-term care services for three years. Service and support needs vary from one person to the next and often change over time. Women need care for longer (on average 3.7 years) than do men (on average 2.2 years). While about one-third of today’s 65-year-olds may never need long-term care services, 20 percent of them will need care for more than five years.

If you need long-term care, you may need one or more of the following:

• Services at your home from a nurse, home health/home care aide, therapist, or homemaker;
• Care in the community; and/or
• Care in any of a variety of long-term facilities.

Generally you pay a provider for these services. But most people receiving paid services in their home or community need to supplement these services with help from family and friends.

How Do Care Needs Change Over Time?

Many people who need long-term care develop the need for care gradually. They may begin needing care only a few times a week or one or two times a day, for example, help with bathing or dressing. Care needs often progress as you age or as your chronic illness or disability become more debilitating, causing you to need care on a more continual basis, for example help using the toilet or ongoing supervision because of a progressive condition such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Some people need long-term care in a facility for a relatively short period of time while they are recovering from a sudden illness or injury, and then may be able to be cared for at home. Others may need long-term care services on an on-going basis, for example someone who is disabled from a severe stroke. Some people may need to move to a nursing home or other type of facility-based setting for more extensive care or supervision if their needs can no longer be met at home.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information. www.LongTermCare.gov

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When trying to decide the best home care solution for your aging loved one, it helps to explore all your options. The information provided can help you explore the benefits of agency-based home care, answer some of your commonly asked questions, and help you understand what to ask when deciding on an agency for your care needs.

10 advantages of agency-based home care

1. Caregiver background checks, reference checks and ongoing drug screening
2. Liability insurance for accidents and wrongdoing, workers compensation insurance for caregiver injuries
3. Backup caregivers allow for continuity of care, no breaks in service, and having family/friend to manage
4. Access to RN’s, Case Managers, & schedulers
5. Continuing education and training of your caregivers on latest industry techniques
6. Industry and Department of Human Services oversight on best practices,
7. Quality assurance programs to ensure the standard of care
8. Access to long-term care insurance for those with policy in place
9. Access and assistance with obtaining Veterans Aid and; Attendance pension for home care
10. Peace of mind

Cost of agency-based home care versus private home care

If cost is a consideration for you, then you should know that agency-based home care does tend to have a higher average cost at about $38/hr while private home care may only cost, on average, $22/hr.

Commonly asked questions about agency-based care

Are “Home Health” and “In-Home Care” the same thing?
Home Health is a medical service for people who are homebound which includes skilled nursing, at-home physical therapy, pain and prescription management, and wound care. Home Care is classified as non-medical assistance with daily activities including personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, ambulatory assistance, medication administration, and nurse delegated care. Although agencies can manage medications and some minor wound care, they are limited in their medical services.

Will my Medicare or Health Insurance pay for my services?
No, both are medical insurances. The entire home care industry is non-medical. The only insurance that ensures a benefit for home care is Long Term Care insurance.

What questions should you ask an agency when deciding on care and why

Do you pay your caregivers as employees or as contract employees?
It is a State law that all agencies must employ their caregivers as employees.

Will I have the same caregiver every shift?
Any case that is 5 or fewer days per week and less than 8 hours and one shift per day, should be scheduled with one caregiver. Caregiver availability is a rising challenge so you may need a second caregiver, but you should see the same caregiver(s) on a weekly basis.

If I am unsatisfied with my caregiver what can I do?
You should have the ultimate choice in your caregiver. It is wise to try and work out issues, as caregivers want to please you and are willing to adapt, but if you don’t have a choice, look elsewhere.

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Why work with a referral agency?

A Senior Care Advisor is your expert in the challenges of aging. It is someone who can sit down and learn everything about your situation to best guide you. Some examples of information an advisor should ask are: Medical/Health Information,  Geographic Needs, Financial Requirements, Veteran Status, Long-Term Care Insurance, Mobility Concerns, Cognitive Abilities, Personal Care Needs, Meal Preferences, Socialization/Hobbies, and/or Estate Planning.

An advisor really must have a clear understanding of everything that is going on before they can start looking at next steps. This process can be equated to assembling a puzzle. You give an advisor an idea of what the end result should look like, hand them all of the pieces needed for assembly, and let them go about piecing everything together. A quality advisor will know all of the options and help navigate this confusing industry to find the perfect solutions for your needs. Keep in mind an advisor is not making decisions on your behalf; this is why it’s crucial you find an advisor you connect with and trust.

The advisor is typically compensated by the long-term care facilities; because of this compensation model an advisor should not be a sales person pushing one particular solution. Their goal should be to provide the highest quality options and present them so you can make the best decisions possible. Given that they have already visited hundreds of these long-term care options, you do not have to start from the beginning. They can quickly recommend the best options and you only have to visit a handful of places. This gives you the ability to focus time and energy on your loved ones. So if you find yourself in need of guidance in these areas, find a quality Senior Care Advisor for help.

Benefits of a Referral Agency

People tend to fall into two broad categories when it comes to big decisions or difficult tasks… the first are those who are determined to take care of it themselves, just wade right in and see what happens; and the second are those who look for input from those who may have been there before or at least have seen how things turned out.

Neither one is right or wrong, just different.  For example: there are two families needing to find suitable housing for an elderly parent who has specific needs and definite preferences to be addressed, referral agencies are well-equipped to be of help to both camps.

For the “do-it-myselfer”, the referral agency can help by giving information on what the senior housing industry looks like, what major things to look for, and avoid, and to provide some explanation of terminology.  This family is then better prepared to go out and find options for their elder.

For the “I-could-use-some-help” types, the referral agency is a trove of information and experience regarding the whole issue of helping seniors move along on their journey.  The agency gathers pertinent information regarding care needs, likes, dislikes, geographic preferences and financial parameters.  With this information the agency provides the senior and/or family with options, tours the options with the family, answers their questions and provides a sounding board to allow them to make an informed decision.

 

 

The time saved by the family seeking help from a referral agency is better used to get the senior integrated into their new environment and to get the whole family back on track.

 

The best parts about actively taking a referral agency’s help are:
(1) they know the options, (2) they know the providers and (3) they take on the leg-work. Oh, and the best part, (4) the referral agency helps you for free. 

How you benefit from having a neutral third party

Referral agents begin by asking questions to become clear on how they can best help you. Whether you choose to look at options on your own or whether you enlist the help of a referral agency, the rent and care fees you pay are the same. 

The senior referral industry is regulated by your State’s Department of Human Services.  In some states,  senior referral agencies are required to register with the state as well.  In Oregon, all agents must meet DHS guidelines to register and must follow the rules set forth by DHS to ensure families are receiving quality information by qualified individuals. Referral agents do not make decisions for you, but they help frame situations to allow you to understand what options you have and they support you in your decision-making process.

 

Be extremely cautious about providing your contact information to online referral agencies when searching for the options. 

Placing your name into various websites can launch a barrage of phone calls of solicitations from businesses and agencies that aren’t even of interest to you. If you plan to work with a referral agency, select a local senior advisor that will tour and be with you each step of the way.

 

 

Security and Online Senior Living Referral Services

While researching Senior Living options online for yourself or a loved one you may be unaware of what happens with your information, and the level of your own security.

If you google search Assisted Living, a list of Online Senior Referral companies will appear. They require you to enter your information that includes: phone number, email, address, health and finances. All before being directed to a list of options.The  companies also put you on a “list.” That list is sent to numerous communities where your information will be entered into multiple databases and viewed by anyone that can access that data. You will then receive emails and phone calls from every community on the “list.”

Once the online service puts you on their list they “own” you as a “lead.” This remains true whether you move in soon, years later or even correspond with that company. This is how they receive compensation.

DO NOT give out your information to receive pricing or a list of communities.

 

 

A secure way to narrow down Senior Living options is to use a Local Senior Living Advisor. They will be willing to meet with you, in person, to assess your loved ones’ specific needs. The Advisor will then, recommend the best options, coordinate the tours and take you to see those recommended options. A Trusted Senior Living Advisor visits communities regularly and knows whom has stable staff, happy residents, good food and quality care. Online Referral companies are unable to provide this level of service.

A Local Senior Living Advisor will be your one point of contact. Only that advisor will have your information unless you wish to give it to the toured communities. This will eliminate needless contact from multiple communities and from the online referral service itself. A Local Advisor can assist you with negotiating costs, recommend resources for: downsizing, selling a home, moving and assist with the necessary paperwork to get moved into a community.

An Important Difference:

On CareAvailability, we do NOT require your contact details to search, and we provide the contact information for each provider. CareAvailability is NOT a referral agency, only a database of providers and we list all of them to create a comprehensive list. You can contact the community when you are ready and you can decide what information you wish to share.

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