Are you wondering how to choose aged care that suits your lifestyle, medical needs, and personal preferences? Whether you prefer to age in place or transition to a care facility, understanding your options is the first step. There are many options available, but the two most popular are residential aged care and home care. The first option is ideal if you prefer to receive professional support services that may be provided in a luxurious care home facility that caters to over 55 living, for example. If you’d rather continue living at home and receive assistance from there, the second option might be the best choice for you. But how do you decide on the right option?
1. How to Choose Aged Care Based on Personal Needs
Are you looking for independence, companionship, familiarity, permanency, or community and social participation? Your priority will dictate how you should receive care as you get older. For example, if you want to live independently within the familiar environment of your home, in-home care would suit you best. You just need to decide who your primary carer will be. Is it a family member, a relative, or a professional carer? Remember that caring for the elderly can be stressful and physically demanding, so choose your carer wisely.
2. Choosing Aged Care for Medical & Daily Support
Some tasks, such as medication management, injections, catheter management, and wound care, will require more clinical and specialised skills. Unlike assistance with feeding, bathing, and showering, not just anyone can carry out medical care services. How often you receive said care can also influence where you choose to grow old.
3. Think about how a space meets your needs
Home care is recommended if you prefer to stay home and receive care in a familiar environment surrounded by family. If your care needs require clinical services, a nursing facility is a good option. Make sure to do your research before you make a decision. Visit different aged care facilities and observe closely how they look and how the staff treats their residents. Speak to residents and ask about their experiences.
4. Take into account staff quality and availability
At-home care providers can assist you with your daily needs right at home. If you decide on home care, make sure your carer can cater to your specific needs. It’s also advantageous if they are close by for prompt services. In aged care facilities, there are employed carers to take care of the residents. Make sure to check the carer-resident ratio to confirm that they are not overwhelmed. If there are more residents than staff, the quality of care will suffer.
5. Check leisure and socialisation programmes provided
One of the reasons that elderly people choose to live in a facility is the activities that they can participate in. Facilities excel in preparing recreational and social events that improve the lifestyle of seniors. The programmes may be structured to the needs of all the residents or persona
Final Thoughts: How to Choose Aged Care Confidently
Choosing to receive at-home care or in a nursing home is not easy. Always consider your personal and medical needs, how a space aligns with your care requirements, and the level of assistance you want to receive from carers. If you want to live the good life during your old age, check out what Clifton Lifestyle offers with its luxurious homes and resort-style facilities.
