We would each like to be independent, in good health, and in familiar surroundings as long as we live.
When illness or disability intervenes, ToolBox Journal will help you develop a comforting home in your long-time house or a new environment with strangers who will soon become family.
HOME: the place we store our stuff. The house where we have lived most of our lives, perhaps raised our family. Where we curl up on our bed with our pillow, secure in comfort and memories. We think this home will be forever and day after day it appears to be so.
As we age, our concept of HOME may become altered. Health issues will contest our independence.
Our children or other support system may live miles away. They may live near us, but be overly committed with work and children.
We can ignore the changes, but our weaknesses will become more insistent for attention, not less.
At some time in our lives, we will need to address our finances, medical contacts, and the day-to-day challenges and choices we make.
HOME on this website is the beginning place for research into developing a care plan for yourself and your family.
If you have recently received a diagnosis or are noticing changes, the ToolBox Journal has resources that may be able to answer your questions.
If your current home situation is not working, YOU HAVE OPTIONS.
A family member may accept the responsibility as primary caregiver.
You can move in with one of your children.
You can stay in your own home and have In-Home care. There is value in remaining in your own home and familiar neighborhood. In-Home Care agencies begin their fees at $15 per hour with a four-hour minimum. Total 24-hour care will be over $10,000 per month.
You can move into an Independent Living Community. Most facilities require $2,500 to $6,000 per month depending on the size of the apartment. Some facilities may start with a basic, non-refundable $30,000 plus monthly rent. Two meals are provided each day. Limited additional nursing care will be an add-on expense. Many Independent Living Communities also offer Assisted Living with total care when the time comes.
An Adult Family Home allows you safe independence in a home-like setting. You enjoy a private room with access to kitchen and community rooms. A family atmosphere is developed to include you. Long term Care Insurance will help with the $6,000 to $8,000 monthly cost. Many homes provide for individuals who need State pay.
An Assisted Living and Nursing Home facility will provide medical care as well as therapy and group activities.
A Skilled Nursing Facility will care for you while you rehab from an injury before moving to a more permanent home.
Your doctor can help you determine which living situation is best for you at this time.
The Dementia ToolBox Journal can help you evaluate and understand your situation.
You are not alone.
Email questions to Maxine@DementiaToolBoxJournal.com
“…and we found mail from several charities thanking Mom for her contributions. They describe a need situation and ask Mom for help. She has donated more than $20,000. We have taken over her checking account. She accuses us of stealing. Has anyone else experienced something similar?”
We unfortunately cannot personally respond to each email.
We will attempt to respond to your subject as appropriate in a ToolBox post or in Your Story. Your HOME is important to us.
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