Continuum of Care

Considering the Continuum of Care

"Dwane is already in assisted living; it is just that you are doing all the assisting.” Holly Crump, Friend

The above quote was during a time when I was wondering out loud about whether we were at the point of needing assisted living, and her comment helped me see my circumstances for what they were.  Her comment, along with concern expressed from my daughter, helped me realize the extent of caregiving I was giving and the increasing needs and stress.

The issue of how to provide care and safety for your loved one will be an ongoing concern.  Research reveals that most caregivers wait too long to place their loved one into a care facility.  I urge you to not wait.  There are waiting lists at most facilities, and it is critical – if we are considering at some point using a facility to provide care --- that we visit the facilities and get on the waiting list of the one we prefer.  I waited too long, so that assisted living facilities would no longer consider taking my loved one because they could not meet the level of his needs.  Fortunately, a facility was available that offered care above the assisted living level.  Perhaps you prefer to keep your loved one at home and hire care to be delivered within your home.  There are drawbacks and benefits to that choice.  It is expensive.  Yes, it our case it was much more expensive than a facility, but the biggest problem was the severe opposition of my spouse.  He would lock caregivers out of the house, and I would not be aware that he was left alone.  So, every situation is very unique, and we must make decisions within our circumstances. 

There is a continuum of care for people who require caregiving, and that is:  home health assistance in the home, adult day care, assisted living, facilities that offer care between assisted living and nursing home, and nursing homes.  Then, when a physician has said the person has 6 months or less to live, there is hospice. 

Invitation to Practice:   Looking down the road into the future, what are the best options for care for your loved one?  Please consider your needs as well as that of your loved one.