As much as we want to take care of our elders, at some point in time, keeping them at home would be more dangerous than having them under nursing homes or assisted living facilities. It is much better to have someone with them 24 hours a day, seven days a week (which most of us cannot afford if they would wish to still stay at home) who is also medically trained. Emergencies are more likely to happen with the elderly than with anyone else. Take away the guilt of not being able to take care of them personally, if you really can’t anymore. You are doing the best thing. Of course, you need to do your research as well and if your elderly is still able, have him decide where he would like to go.
There are a lot of assisted living communities in every state. Assisted living facilities are for people needing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) but wishing to live as independently as possible for as long as possible. It is actually in the middle of living independently vs. being in a nursing home. These assisted living facilities are there to assist elderly persons who are able to care for themselves except for a few activities, the person help preparing meals, bathing, dressing, performing household chores, is sometimes confused, or is experiencing memory problems.
You should not confuse this with skilled nursing facilities, continue care centers (CCRC), board and care homes, home care and hospice care. It varied greatly with the type of medical attention they need and how much they can fend for themselves. As a member of the family, you should learn what your elderly needs and then coordinate. You may want to avail of centers near your area so visiting them can be easier.
If your elderly would want (and if he or she is still able), there are senior independent living centers. It is primarily for people who want to stay active and interact with active adults. It may vary from center to center but usually they may offer one meal a day, housekeeping, concierge service, and/or a recreation program.
