Part of the aging process includes decisions about where one wants to live, especially as our faculties, health, interests, and financial situations change. The Berks County / Reading area offers many different housing options for seniors, so let’s take a look at the different types of senior housing, keeping in mind that some options may entail financial and legal issues that you and your loved ones need to prepare for. The Law Office of Scott C. Painter stands ready to help you with these needs.
Living alone simply means that you are self-sufficient and confident of your ability to care for yourself and find help with needs including transportation and similar resources. This is also known as “aging-in-place.” Most seniors prefer to be as independent as possible.
Home care allows you to live at home, even if you need help with daily life. If you are finding it difficult to manage certain tasks, and would even like some company, home care agencies will send caregivers to help with chores and provide companionship based on your agreed-upon needs.
Independent living communities are residential communities for active older adults who want an enjoyable lifestyle free of the worries and trouble of home maintenance. Many independent living communities provide a full range of activities that promote social opportunities among residents such as shopping trips, cultural event outings, educational programs, and organized gatherings. Many independent living communities also have tennis courts, swimming pools, activity rooms, and other amenities. Most offer a variety of meal plans as well as the option of preparing meals in your own apartment. Most independent living communities are fully secured.
Assisted living also requires a move to an assisted living community, so it’s a big change from living at home. Assisted living allows for independent living, albeit among a community of other residents. This allows for trading in the responsibilities of homeownership for increased socialization and activities.
Assisted living memory care is the choice for seniors who are experiencing memory loss, including Alzheimer’s and other dementias, that keep you from safely managing daily life at home. These communities provide specialized programs and care to keep residents safe and active.
Nursing homes provide care for individuals who need nursing care on a regular basis (but do not need to be hospitalized). The care is administered by nursing professionals under the direction of a physician. The facilities are regulated by state departments of health. Many nursing care facilities also offer sub-acute, respite, rehabilitation, and other short-term needs.
Major life changes often require a serious look at financial and other issues. A skilled elder law attorney will help you get peace of mind knowing that your loved one is provided for while helping you craft an economical plan that won’t burden your family.
The law office of elder law attorney Scott C. Painter, P.C., is located in Wyomissing (outside of Reading, PA, in Berks County,) and offers trusted legal services in the areas of elder law, including nursing home planning, trust and estate services, and veterans benefits. Scott C. Painter is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA®), and he is also a member of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).
If you have an issue or question, we encourage you to call us. With legal matters, time is of the essence. Call us for a consultation at 610-378-5140. The $300 consultation fee is waived if Attorney Painter is retained to perform services.