Ever since the COVID pandemic, senior care has continued to evolve and change for the better of the people that it serves.
One of the big issues that was revealed early on in the pandemic was that senior care wasn’t helping people in the way that it should. Seniors that were receiving care in facility settings, like assisted living or nursing homes, were often those that were hit hardest by COVID. They were in a group setting, so the potential for contact with the virus was elevated because of this. But some of the procedures that were put in place, such as not allowing visitors or keeping people isolated, also had a negative impact on them. In many cases, the negative toll that was taken on mental health was worse than the virus. It became clear that the traditional model of care wasn’t working for everyone.
Like many other issues in life, there are a number of solutions to this. For example, some senior care communities are hiring doctors or other professionals to be present, even if they’re not necessarily needed on a full-time basis. Even communities that are not meant to specifically provide medical assistance to seniors are finding that this can help because it ensure that the help that’s needed is present. It is more convenient for those present, and can help nip problems in the bud because of earlier interventions.
Another solution is to utilize remote health options. Some doctors and practices were doing this before the pandemic, but Zoom and Facetime conferencing became much more normalized early on in the pandemic. It’s not a perfect solution, but for many it is just the right amount of support in order to keep thriving wherever they are already located.
Others have found that avoiding senior living altogether is the best approach. Independent living, staying with family, and in-home care are all other methods of ensuring that someone is getting the help and attention that they need, all while still living their life the way that works best for them. Help with transportation is often required, but this tends to be a minor issue.
What works best for you and your family will need to be determined based upon your own unique set of circumstances.
Not everyone requires medical help out of their senior care. This is where the nursing home model really does provide a valuable service to people that use this service. Again, it’s not right for all, but the presence of on-site medical professionals can be a huge help for those that need it.
The best senior care solution for you and your family is out there. Maybe you know exactly what this is, but maybe you don’t. If you have questions or are looking for guidance when it comes to the right type of care or level of assistance, please reach out. We can offer help in this area through a free consultation session. Give us a call or send an email to get the conversation going.
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