Considering Other Housing Options
If you believe that home care is not practical for you, many other options exist. Good programs foster independence, dignity, privacy, a very high level of functioning, and connections with the community. However, people who have lived independently all their lives may not be suited to live in groups, and those who are mentally alert or are younger may be very unhappy living with people who suffer from dementia.
Keep the above factors in mind when you check out the following:
- Independent Living Options: apartment buildings, condos, retirement communities, and single-family homes
- Semi-independent Living Options: places that offer the same benefits as independent living but also include meal service and housekeeping as part of the monthly fee, provide help with personal care, keep track of health and medications, and provide special diets. These options are frequently offered in assisted living facilities and group homes.
- Skilled Care Facilities: nursing homes
NOTE. States use different names for care facilities. The services can also vary, so it is important to check with the facility and each state's licensing agency to confirm exactly which services are offered. For example, in Wyoming, assisted living allows people who are unrelated to share a room. In some other places, living spaces are not shared, except by personal choice.
