23 Oct Tips for Helping an Aging Parent in Kansas Decide Between an Assisted Living Facility and Skilled Nursing Facility
As your parents grow older, are you becoming aware that making decisions about their long-term care becomes an important responsibility? Families often face a common dilemma: choosing between an assisted living facility and a skilled nursing facility. Each option provides vital services, but the right choice depends on a variety of factors, including your parent’s health, personal preferences, and financial situation. We know that when you understand the differences between these two types of care it will help you make an informed decision that ensures your parent’s well-being and comfort.
Choosing the right facility requires careful thought and planning, especially since long-term care decisions can have significant emotional and financial impacts on both the parent and the family. While assisted living facilities offer a more independent environment with daily help as needed, skilled nursing facilities provide more intensive medical care for those who require constant supervision. To help guide you through this process, let us outline several of the key factors to consider when deciding which option is best suited for your aging parent.
The first step is to assess the level of care your parent needs. Assisted living facilities are often ideal for seniors who are relatively independent but may need assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or medication management. On the other hand, skilled nursing facilities are designed for individuals with more complex medical needs, offering 24-hour care and supervision. It is important to evaluate your parent’s current health status and consider whether their needs are likely to change in the near future.
Another critical consideration is your parent’s long-term health outlook. If they are in a stable condition and value their independence, an assisted living facility may be the best option. For those with progressive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, however, a skilled nursing facility might provide the necessary medical support as their condition evolves. Thinking about future needs is just as important as addressing the present when planning for long-term care.
Cost is often a significant factor in deciding between an assisted living facility and a skilled nursing facility. Further, there are distinct Medicaid differences between Medicaid for those who live in assisted living and those who are in a skilled nursing, long-term care facility. While assisted living is generally less expensive for the private payer, it is important to understand what services are included in the fees. For example, while assisted living may cover meals, housekeeping, and basic care, additional services may come at an extra cost. Skilled nursing facilities, while more expensive, provide more comprehensive care, including round-the-clock medical attention. By choosing to be proactive and working with an elder law attorney like Kristen Armstrong, we can work together to explore financial assistance options, such as Medicaid, and ensure that your family’s assets are protected to the maximum extent possible.
As you begin your journey, you may also want to visit potential facilities in person which would be crucial for getting a real sense of the environment your parent would live in. When touring, pay attention to cleanliness, staff interactions, and resident engagement. The atmosphere can significantly impact your parent’s quality of life, so take the time to ask questions about staff-to-resident ratios, emergency procedures, and how the facility handles health changes over time. This will give you a better understanding of whether the facility can provide the level of care your parent needs. Overall, look for facilities that offer enriching activities and opportunities for socialization, as this can greatly enhance your parent’s overall well-being.
Whenever possible, involve your parent in the decision-making process. There is no question that by having open conversations about their preferences and concerns, it can help ease the transition and ensure they feel respected. While it may be a challenging discussion, involving your parent in these decisions will make them feel more in control and can lead to better outcomes for their overall happiness and comfort.
Lastly, consulting with an experienced Kansas elder law attorney is an essential step in making informed decisions about your parent’s long-term care. As elder law attorneys, we can help you navigate the financial and legal aspects of care planning, including Medicaid eligibility, asset protection, and the creation of legal documents such as powers of attorney. With professional guidance, you can ensure that your parent’s needs are met while also protecting their financial future.
Our team at Generations Estate Planning & Elder Law, LLC is dedicated to providing solutions for the elderly, the disabled, and their families. No matter what your situation, we are here to listen to the needs of our clients and provide information, advice and most importantly, support. We would love to speak with you and help you answer your legal questions. Do not hesitate to call us at 620-662-2905 to schedule an initial consultation.
These materials have been prepared by Generations Estate Planning & Elder Law, LLC for general informational purposes only and are not intended and should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion on any specific facts or circumstances. Every case is unique. The information contained herein is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship nor is it intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional legal counsel.
