Living arrangements that maximize a person's independence while providing necessary support and care are available in many communities. Moving to a residential care facility is an enormous change in lifestyle. Whenever possible the decision should be discussed fully with the impaired person. In addition, other family members, a social worker, case manager or hospital discharge planner, financial planner, and spiritual advisor can be helpful in making sure that the person's needs will be met and that the individual and family feel comfortable with the move. These two options provide alternatives to more intensive and costly nursing home care.
Residences vary as to the type of services they provide.
These facilities are suitable for healthy older persons with minimal service needs. The personal care model provides personal care assistance for persons in frail health or in situations where the well spouse and the impaired spouse wish to continue living together, with onsite support services. It is important to find out if persons with degenerative conditions can continue to reside in the ALF if the condition worsens. The aging-in place model offers onsite care for chronic conditions. These facilities are equipped to provide some skilled nursing services and can accommodate the changing needs of residents.