Senior Living communities and their related programs have an important benefit that deserves more emphasis than it probably receives: companionship. For an older population heavy slanted toward those living alone, especially for its elderly women, this benefit is significant.
“Many prefer to remain in their own homes while younger, but begin to think of their care options as they age deeper into their golden years. Concerns grow around the potential impact of living alone and the related vulnerabilities this can cause,” according to Barbara Mason, Executive Director of Sun Health at Home.
Learn more about the impact of isolation on older adults here.
Whether it’s a husband unsettled about what might happen to his wife if he passes away first or a single woman who prefers to live by herself but wonders who will help if long-term care becomes necessary, it’s a realistic concern.
SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS THAT OFFER COMPANIONSHIP
“The right senior living community can provide a strong social environment and support network. It’s a powerful reason to make the move, but many simply aren’t interested in living within the community,” adds Mason. ”They want to remain in the home they love, surrounded by their friends and a familiar environment.”
The growth of our single senior population
More than 11 million seniors —32 percent of those aged 65 and older—live alone. For those 85 and up, that percentage is almost 50 percent, according to the U.S. Census.
Not only that, but our aged population is expected to double by 2050, with the percentage of those living alone expected to grow significantly right along with it. It impacts women the most, since elderly women far outnumber men. They’re more likely to be alone because they live longer and while most elderly men are married, most elderly women are not, also according to census data.
Times have changed, though. Moving into a senior living community isn’t the only answer. One option provides the same community benefits, but without becoming an actual resident.
Continuing Care at Home programs leverage the impressive social resources of its parent CCRC
Thanks to Life Care communities that offer a continuing care at home (CCaH) program, the same vibrant lifestyle, support system and social network available to those living in a senior living community can be available to non-residents, too.
Those living alone don’t have to become isolated, or go without care and companionship.
Life Care communities are also known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).
Because CCaH programs are designed to offer most of the same benefits as its parent Life Care community, the program revolves around keeping members independent. A robust program of health and wellness services includes a highly active social calendar and companion services, along with the assisted living benefit available if it becomes necessary. All costs are included in the program, making it an attractive complement or alternative to long-term care insurance, in addition to the companion benefit.
Plus, if the member should decide to move into the parent CCRC later, rather than receiving program benefits in their home? Their membership fee may roll over, covering some or all of the entrance fee to become a resident.
Independent Living is required
Both a CCaH program and a Life Care community require prospective members to be able to take care of themselves independently, handling normal tasks of daily living themselves. They’re not a solution for those with an immediate need for assisted living or memory care services.
If you’d like to learn more about Sun Health at Home, a continuing care at home program designed to handle long-term care needs of those who prefer to age in place, reserve your spot now at our free, no-obligation discovery seminar or call (623) 227- HOME (4663).
Sun Health at Home is the first CCaH program in the southwestern United States, and the only one available in Arizona.
