As loved ones age and begin to need some level of nursing or assistance in their daily activities, consider a variety of care options to make the most appropriate selection. Adult children often face difficult decisions about how to care for their aging parents. Needs of the elderly vary depending on their physical and emotional health.
Family members have several choices about the types of care available.
The circumstances surrounding care decisions differ with the family situations. Patterson said the level of assistance needed may be minimal, such as help with one or two daily activities, like preparing a meal or housekeeping. Those who need this type of assistance may be able to remain independent in their own homes with the help of visiting family members or other services. As the amount of help needed increases, consider new living situations such as retirement communities that provide a wide range of services. Many retirement communities promote independence and offer social and recreational activities.