Advice for
the Family
Chronic
Care Co-payment Fact Sheet
There are many times during one's
lifetime when natural developmental stages or passages are experienced: childhood,
adolescence, adulthood, retirement. Because of changes in roles and responsibilities,
individuals find themselves either making or assisting in complex and important decisions
about where they, a friend, or a family member, should be living. Changes in physical
functioning, mental capabilities, life interests, financial situation, and social supports
all affect what type of place is appropriate, and most importantly, where an individual is
ultimately going to be content and the happiest.
Making a good decision regarding where one chooses to live is important and can be
difficult. Don't wait until there is a crisis to gather information. The best decisions
are usually made without time pressures. Incorporating the help of friends and relatives
not only gives one the opportunity to share the work of a search and move but also
provides a ready support group to discuss what the move means to each of them.
By systematically considering available choices, you can compare the strengths and
weaknesses of various options. It is important to try to be as open and honest about what
is absolutely needed or wanted and things that are open to compromise and negotiation.
Know the Personal Likes and Dislikes
A small, home-like residence which gives
individual attention and care may be ideal for one individual and may be hated by someone
else. Sometimes the ability to continue with a hobby or have a pet accompany the person
guides all the decisions that need to be made. Take genuine stock of what is most
important in the individual's life and make sure this can be maintained, if at all
possible.
Know and Visit the Various Choices
Make sure that you look at the options from
the point of view of the individual who will be living there. After a scheduled tour and
obtaining the general information, make an unscheduled drop-in stop later to see if there
are any differences. Pay special attention to the convenience of: location, visiting
hours, visiting areas, food, types of care rendered, ancillary services, staffing, daily
activities, religious activities, and safety/security issues. Don't be afraid to make as
many trips back as necessary to get all your questions answered.
Quality vs. Cost
It can be difficult to find a comfortable balance between the two. Don't forget to ask
questions and look into state or federal assistance which may help. Find out what the
policy of the residence or facility is if savings or funds of an individual were to be
exhausted. Even though these questions may be difficult to ask or make you feel
embarrassed, it is something that people who work with facility care are quite comfortable
dealing with. Also, they may have some excellent suggestions or alternative programs that
you may qualify for. Sometimes the level or type of care an individual needs can fluctuate
frequently or change, which may also need to be considered along with any other future
needs.
Plan the Move
The speed at which the actual change needs to
take place can vary. Sometimes a trial stay or keeping two residences for a short period
is possible. Obviously, the more crisis-based the decision, the less likely it is that
everyone will have the time necessary to adjust. Remember that paid storage space can be
obtained for items when it is too overwhelming to make final decisions on possessions.
Adjustment Period
When anyone is faced with a major change in
his or her life, there comes with it a need for new equilibrium. Assisting with change can
be both exhausting and rewarding when it is done responsibly. There is an opportunity to
use this time to establish a pattern for cooperative understanding among individuals
working toward a mutual goal, and to learn more about oneself. The bittersweet nature of
warm memories and simpler tomorrows should not be undersold as not important to the
transitional milestone process. After all, home is truly where the heart is and it is
important for everyone to feel comfortable with how and where they are living. Try to be
patient with your emotions and those of people around you. Give new arrangements time to
become comfortable.
Making a move can be difficult, even painful, especially later in life. The assistance of
an outside party or professional may help with either making the decision itself or with
the emotional consequences. Many times these life passages bring up both pleasant and
painful memories from the past. Don't be afraid to get the necessary support so you can
have a successful move. And whatever path you choose, make the most of it.
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