Whether you are shopping around for options in Senior Living, or exploring on behalf of another person, it can be overwhelming. “What’s offered at each community can differ greatly,” says Allison Marlow, Senior Living counselor at Lutheran Hillside Village. “With such a wide variety and a growing demand, there is a definite benefit to being informed.”
Be in the know with a quick 411 on what the different terms mean and which option best fits your needs.
- Independent Living: Very similar to living in your own home, designed exclusively for older adults. Options range from patio homes to condos to apartments, often with amenities, services, and activities offered.
- Assisted Living/Residential Care: Residents benefit from 24-hour staffing, help with personal care, prepared meals, medication assistance, weekly housekeeping, and other offered services.
- Assisted Living Memory Care: Specifically for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory impairments. The staff in Memory Care is specially trained to assist people with dementia or impaired cognition.
- Skilled Care/Care Center/Long-Term Care: For residents who need 24-hour nursing care. Overseen by registered nurses who provide direct care and communicate with family members regarding plans for care.
- Short-Stay/Short-Term Rehab: For those needing rehabilitation following a hospital stay. Work with a team of professionals to achieve your goals, in the shortest amount of time possible through a program individualized therapy and care.
- CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community): This means that all levels of care are offered on one campus. And you can move to other levels as needed.
- EHR (Electronic Health Records)/EMR (Electronic Medical Records): A digital version of your paper chart.
- POA (Power of Attorney): Written authorization to represent or act on another’s behalf in private affairs, business, or legal matters.
- EOB (Eligibility of Benefits): A statement sent by a health insurance company to covered individuals explaining what medical treatments and/or services were paid for on their behalf.
Still have questions? Contact Ellyn Book at Lutheran Hillside Village at 309-692-4600 for more information on the “which and what” of senior living.
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