Every day, families are burdened with what they could do with their older loved ones, who may need additional care, beyond what they can give. The process is not easy and can become a financial burden in the wrong situation.
Hugh Minor, Marketing Director of Saint Elizabeth Community in Warwick, believes having the information accessible will help people make those choices.
We spoke with Hugh recently to get his thoughts on this and other matters.
What is your family’s plan when it comes to caring for aging loved ones?
“You have options when it comes to making decisions about eldercare. The topic is one we don’t want to talk about, but it needs to be discussed. As the saying goes, ‘If you fail to plan, plan to fail.’”
Sometimes the signs of trouble are not that obvious. Does their home seem cluttered? Are they losing or gaining weight? Do they seem forgetful or confused?
“These are the early warning indicators, but often we wait until something more severe happens like a fall or serious illness. When choosing long-term care, families sometimes wait until they experience a crisis, and then are forced to make a decision during less- than-ideal circumstances. Although moving into a skilled nursing home is a wonderful option, it’s not the only one, and it doesn’t always need to be the first step.”
Minor said that anyone can decide what is best for their family’s situation. He notes that someone, such as Aging Life Care Specialist, Sheri Ferola, from Saint Elizabeth Community, can be resourceful.
“We work with our clients to find the best fit for them at this moment in time, while planning out their long-term options. We take a holistic approach in assessing their needs, then help guide them through the process. We’ll be there with them for the duration, adapting with them, as changes occur,” she said.
Minor pointed out some options in the continuum of care that an Aging Life Care Specialist can evaluate with clients.
In-Home Care
“We hear a lot of talk about aging in place, where we have the opportunity to grow older in the comfort of our own home. Home care is a great way to make that happen. Let caring, qualified staff come to your home to provide services that include skilled nursing, rehabilitation, physical therapy, CAN care (Cancer), personal assistance, and more.
Take for example, Moneike, a CAN with Home Care client, William. They start their mornings together by picking up a coffee and taking a ride to the beach. Then, William attends an exercise class at the YMCA. Without Moneike’s assistance, he wouldn’t be able to participate in these activities that keep him engaged and active, body and mind.”
Adult Day Centers
“One of the key ingredients of aging well is remaining active, physically and mentally. Adult day centers provide engaging and supportive activities, daily, under the supervision of healthcare staff who offer assistance with everything, from personal care to medication management. Many programs offer specialized care for elders affected by conditions like memory loss, or motion and mobility disorders.
Saint Elizabeth Community has four adult day centers located in Apponaug, Bristol, South Kingstown, and Warwick Neck. Open Monday through Friday, the centers provide a safe place for older adults to spend their day, where they can socialize and enjoy themselves.”
Senior Apartments
“For older adults who live independently, but wish to be in a community of their peers, senior apartments are a great alternative. Many housing complexes offer safe and affordable spaces that include resources like security and onsite resident services. Independent living apartments are located in Providence and Warwick Neck.”
Assisted Living
“Assisted living provides independent living, much like senior apartments, but with additional support and attention. Nursing and CAN staff help residents with their daily care. Dining, laundry, and other personal services are available, as well. There are always fun social activities to keep everyone active and engaged, such as trips to the movies, sporting events, or the zoo.”
Skilled Nursing Home
“Whether for short-term rehabilitation or as a long-term resident, skilled nursing homes offer the ultimate in quality care. Staff build relationships with the members of the community and are able to monitor and assess their health on a daily basis. Specialized units may focus on memory care or physical activity, depending on the needs of each resident.”
Saint Elizabeth’s GREEN HOUSE Homes provide a unique model of care. There are four homes, all on a single level, and each home houses 12 residents, who have a private bedroom and bathroom, but share common areas, such as the living room and dining room. It really is a special place that provides incredible care.
“Since 1882, Saint Elizabeth’s has been a community of caring,” explained President and CEO, Matt Trimble. “We continue to find innovative ways to deliver care with compassion, while striving to make sure everyone is treated like family.”
Saint Elizabeth Community is a non-profit, provider of care and services to more than 2,500 seniors in Rhode Island, offering home health services, affordable apartments for seniors, adult day program centers, affordable assisted living, short term rehab, long term care, and specialized memory care.
Before you decide on your long-term care, consider the wide range of available options.
For more information, visit: www.stelizabethcommunity.org.
