WomenCare WNY » Ask Us Anything » A Nursing Home is Not an Option. Can You Help?
Question:
"My mom needs care, but I don't want her to lose her independence. A nursing home is not an option. Can you help?"
Answer:
Long-term care is needed when someone is unable to perform everyday activities due to chronic health problems or disabilities.
This care can be provided at a nursing home, but it is also offered in other settings that allow your parent to continue living at home.
Your options include:
Medical Alert System
A medical alert system is a device worn around the wrist or neck to summon help should the need arise.
Our Home Response medical alert system connects mom to emergency response specialists who can send help quickly. The device also allows the wearer to answer incoming calls, reducing the risk of a fall.
Home Care
In a home care program, healthcare services and assistance with daily activities are provided at home, rather than in a medical setting, eliminating the need for nursing home care.
Long-term home care is a cost-effective alternative to nursing home placement. Our “nursing home without walls” program offers nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, adult day care, and more and helps mom to maintain her independence.
Adult Medical Day Care
Adult Medical Day Care provides a place where someone requiring supervision can spend the day and have the opportunity to socialize and receive medical care.
The St. Catherine Adult Day Care Program in Buffalo offers all of the services that you would find in a nursing home. Transportation arrangements are coordinated by the program staff.
PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
People who qualify for nursing home care may choose instead to participate in a PACE program, where care is given at home or at a day care center.
Our PACE program is called LIFE. It offers primary care and medical services at our LIFE health center and includes transportation to and from medical appointments.
In addition to medical care, LIFE has a day center, where participants may engage in recreational and social activities and receive personal care and supervision during the day.
Not only do nursing home alternatives allow mom to live at home or with her loved ones, but they are also more cost-effective solutions that ensure that mom receives the care she needs.
