The term assisted living facility has been thrown around in the past, but it’s not always used in the right context as many believe that these facilities (also referred to by their abbreviation ALF) are more similar to nursing homes which essentially offer seniors no independence or privacy. ALF is like receiving live-in senior care, but with a little bit of additional independence. The following services and benefits are offered to seniors in assisted living facilities:

1. Living independently – seniors in ALFs are often in one-bedroom or studio apartment buildings, so they have the privacy and independence that they require

2. Safety is offered – ALF apartments anticipate the safety needs of seniors and ensure that they include grab bars, ramps and other essential safety devices. Supervisors are always available to respond to emergencies

3. Seniors don’t need to worry about home maintenance – cleaning services, including laundry can be provided by ALF

4. Activity of daily living services are offered – bathing, dressing, and medication reminders can be provided. There are also special facilities for those who suffer with Alzheimer’s and dementia and designated services

ALF is a great alternative for those seniors who may no longer be able to live in their own homes – even with the support of a family or professional caregiver. However, they do come at a cost and while private insurance companies may cover a portion of the fees, Medicare and Medicaid do not.

Home Instead Senior Care serving elders and seniors in San Jose, Los Gatos, Santa Clara and Saratoga home care - 408-370-6360.

Finding the right doctor can play a major role in providing for a senior’s health, while location and ease of accessibility may seem like a major factor in determining which physician to see; many other things come into play which seniors might not think about.

1. Does your insurance or health plan cover your physician choice? Often doctors need to be plan-approved or affiliated with a specific group in order to be covered by health and insurance plans.

2. What kind of doctor do you need? Consider whether a general practitioner to manage your overall health is what you require, or if you need a specialist to address a specific aging health issues.

3. Can your doctor practice at your local hospital? In case of senior medical emergency, you may need your doctor to treat you at the hospital of your choice. Ensure the doctor you choose has the authority to do so.

4. Have you checked out his/her reputation – if possible, choose a doctor who comes highly recommended by friends, family or other people in your network who have seen the doctor. You want someone who will listen to your concerns, is respectful and answers questions.

5. Check their qualifications – all general practitioners must be board certified, having completed a medical residency. Specialists must have additional training.

Use Administrators in Medicine to learn of any disciplinary actions taken against the doctor of your choice, as well as the Federation of State Medical Boards and the NCQA Recognized Physician Directory to grasp the history of your chosen medical professionals.

Sources:

1. Seniors for living

2. MedicineNet.com

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Call Home Instead Senior Care serving elders in San Jose, Los Gatos, Santa Clara and Saratoga when seeking help for your aging parents - 408-370-6360.