By Barbara Melnyk

Before her death, my mother had been the primary caregiver to my dad, who had suffered a stroke a few years before. My parents had moved into a single floor condo in their 60's, so they were able to stay in that home during most of their senior years. However, after my mom's death, it was evident that our family now needed to take the next step and find an assisted facility for my dad.

For many of us thinking about housing options may not seem like a high priority now. But knowing options can reduce sudden stressful situations in the future.

Staying in Your Own Home
While the optimum thought may be to stay in your own home, you need to look around to see if it can adequately provide the safety that is needed. Consider what would happen if you need to bring your aging parent into your home. Do you have the facilities to make life comfortable and safe? Even simple things like rugs could pose a health risk.

At-Home Care – When you or a loved one begins having difficulty managing life at home alone, but does not necessarily need institutionalized care, the best way to maintain a feeling of independence, while still getting the attention needed, is to
consider at-home assistance. Many seniors are prematurely admitted to senior living facilities simply because chores like
cooking and housekeeping can be difficult. When little medical help is needed, keeping a loved one in their own home can be an easier, and a much happier situation, for everyone involved.

At-home caregivers are specially trained to provide care, and, in many cases, will also assist in administering medications or help with other health-related issues.

Adult Day Care – For situations in which your loved one requires some assistance during the day, but not around-the-clock medical assistance, organizations such as Generations' Elder Care offer programs that ensure safety and comfort. In many cases, the transition from independent to assisted-living can be a difficult one, yet with daytime programs involving activities and plenty of opportunities for socialization, the stress of dependency – for both caregiver and receiver – is minimized.
Many services provide nutritious meals and the professional supervision that aids those not fully capable of cooking and cleaning for themselves. These programs are perfect solutions for families who need an occasional respite from care giving, as well as for seniors who desire more social interaction and companionship throughout the day. Generations even provides
transportation if needed.

The Decision to Move
Moving from your existing residence – regardless of age – can be a stressful situation. In some cases, you may consider downsizing your home to a more active senior community. In other cases, you may be looking for facilities that can meet special needs.

Boomer-Centric Housing – This newest option in living choices for seniors today is Boomer-Centric homes and senior communities. This option balances the benefits of owning your home with the amenities of a care-free senior community. Allison Homes of Rochester is offers Boomer-Centric housing because "Today's 55-year-old is not the same as yesterday's 55-year old." These homes feature floor plans designed to keep seniors safe and comfortable. Low profile thresholds make doorways safer to navigate. Wider doorways and hallways leave room for walkers and wheelchairs. Extra lighting features in
hallways, closets and even illuminating light switches make seeing easier and safer. The Boomer-Centric housing concept offers an opportunity to retain independence for seniors well into the later years.

Assisted Living/Senior Facility – Gone are the days of stark nursing facilities. Today's facilities are bright, friendly and offer a broad base of services. Being able to identify what types of facilities you require will help in narrowing down the options. Will the person need assisted housing? Are meals prepared for them or will they be able to cook their own meals? Are there medical services available? Do you have specific distance criteria that need to be taken into consideration? Many of these general
questions can easily be addressed by phone or through the facility's website, if they have one. Additionally, The Greater Rochester Area Partnership for the Elderly (G.R.A.P.E) produces the Professionals Guide to Elder Services that lists elder services in the Greater Rochester area. Now offered on-line, health care professionals as well as the general public can access information to make appropriate decisions. Log onto www.grapelder.org for more information.

Understand Your Options
Fortunately for our family, my nephew was able to care for my dad while my oldest brother reviewed facilities and services. Having this additional time assured us in finding a facility that had the right options for both my dad's short- and long-term needs. While no move will be totally without stress, feeling comfortable in your decision will help in making the process much easier.

Barbara Melnyk is Publisher/Editor of Rochester Woman Magazine.