Page 118 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2022

GOLDEN YEARS
KNOW THE LINGO FOR
Long Term Care Planning story courtesy of Methodist Senior Services
Hearing the words “long-term care” often causes people to think of a nursing home, but in today’s elder care world, long-term care includes much more. With many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decipher the terminology or what will best meet your needs. At Methodist Senior Services, we believe every elder, and their loved ones, should have access to housing information and services available to them.
What Is Long-Term Care?
Long-term care (LTC) is a broad term that describes care given in the form of medical and support services to people who, due to illness or injury, have lost some or all their capacity to live daily without assistance.
What Options Do I Have for Long- Term Care?
LTC options range from in-home services to retirement community residences. Home-based services allow a person to remain in their home while receiving aide with the activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and grooming. Assisted living or skilled nursing facilities also offer assistance 24/7 with daily tasks and care. In these settings, there are increased opportunities for socialization.
What’s The Difference Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing?
Assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and skilled nursing
for those who need some assistance in maintaining their independence. Assisted living offers routine assistance (as needed) with one or more activities of daily living in a comfortable apartment or suite. Skilled Nursing Homes are designed for those requiring 24-hour nursing or health care, whether long or short-term.
Are There LTC Options for Someone with Alzheimer’s or Other Dementias?
Memory Support Services are often available within the assisted living or skilled nursing settings. Memory support typically offers similar amenities, but with an intentional approach from trained team members to work with the elder’s strengths and limitations to ensure that their personalized needs are met.
Let Us Help You!
We understand this process can be confusing and we would like to be a resource each step of the way. Schedule a visit today and pick up your free copy of the Eldercare Definitions Guidebook at Seashore Highlands Retirement Community at 228.831.7000.
118 | November 2022
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