Longer life and a desire to remain independent have created needs for alternatives for the elderly beyond moving to an assisted-living facility. Modern medicine and better nutrition and exercise have contributed to many seniors living longer and more active lives. Extended life spans have created challenges on help these seniors live active and productive lives, while making it possible for them to remain in the lifestyle and environment to which they are accustomed.
Need for Viable Options
A realistic fear, as seniors grow older, is losing their independence and ability to live on their own. Most want to remain in their own homes and care for themselves, not wanting to become a burden to family members. As baby boomers age, more of the population is reaching those golden years and beyond, creating an even greater need. More options are necessary to help them manage meals, cleaning, cooking and personal care without moving to an assisted-living facility. It is a major ongoing concern for seniors, their families and caretakers, as well as local and federal governments.
Remaining at Home
Most elderly people who need some assistance want to stay in their own home. With the help of such organizations as Meals on Wheels, shopping and cleaning services and home-care providers, more of the elderly, including those in poor health or disabled, are able to continue living in their home.
Senior Communities
While moving in with grown children or other family members is a choice, it often creates stress on all concerned. Sometimes just moving closer to loved ones can afford seniors their dignity, self respect and autonomy, while providing more security. Likewise, some have no family to rely on, and other avenues must be explored.
Some turn to individual apartments within a senior 55+ community with diversified resources. Within these communities, meals, activities and help are provided for various levels of need. Many state and federal programs offer subsidized senior housing for the elderly. These facilities offer help with meals, laundry and shopping while allowing them to continue to live independently and in their own space. These programs make it feasible for those with even a modest income to live on their own.
Exploring Nontraditional Care
A nontraditional alternative for assisted living is seniors living on cruise ships. Meals, activities, cleaning and staff members readily are available, and there is even a physician on the ship for emergencies. Opportunities to travel and remain socially active on board is a great asset. It has been referred to as "cruise care." When comparing the cost of year-long cruising to a year's stay at an assisted-living facility, it amounts to only a fraction more. Changes in the industry and broader perceptions need to occur for this to be viable alternative for seniors in the future. However, for those with retirement savings and good health, it is an exciting alternative for their remaining years.
Seniors and Independence
Wherever a senior decides to spend those remaining years, it is generally dictated by such factors as health, finances and mobility. The most important requirement is that they find a safe, secure atmosphere where they can maintain the most independence for the longest time and where they can continue to feel like a valuable, productive part of society.
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