THE CONTINUUM OF CARE
For some, there may come a time when adaptation to their living
environment or hands-on care is needed to make living independently
easier or even possible. Later, they may need more care and at
some point may no longer be able to safely live independently.
This progression is called the “Continuum of Care,” which usually
follows the least restrictive environment to the most restrictive. The
following is information on the common progression along life’s
continuum of care.
Independent Living means remaining in the community
in one’s own residence or in that of a loved one.
• Independent Living Communities, often referred to as retirement
communities, are designed for independent senior adults who want
to enjoy a lifestyle filled with recreational, educational and social
activities with other seniors. These communities are designed for
seniors who are able to live on their own, but desire the security
and conveniences of community living.
• Community Services enhance life socially, help with security and
sometimes provide answers to increasing needs. Emergency response
call buttons notify family, neighbors or emergency services in the
event of a fall, a medical emergency, a fire, or an intruder. Adult
day health care provides relief to a caregiver and supervision for the
senior. Senior centers provide activities, nutrition and socialization.
Home-delivered meals provide nutrition and someone to check on
a homebound senior.
• Home Health is paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, private
insurance or private individual. It provides skilled nursing services
and custodial personal care such as bathing and grooming. Also
available are physical, speech and occupational therapies. A
doctor’s order is required for these services.
• Hospice Care is “comfort care” provided to individuals who have
an illness or condition which is thought will bring about the end
of life. Medicare and Medicaid assist with payment for hospice
which includes nurse and personal care visits and a variety of
other services.
• Respite Care provides temporary relief for caregivers from their
day-to-day caregiving responsibilities. This allows time to recoup
emotionally and physically, to tend to family or work obligations,
or to take a much needed break without worrying about the care
of their loved one.
• The Frail Elderly and Disabled Medicaid Waiver Program
provides services for elderly and disabled low-income people
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LONG-TERM
CARE
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