America has an oncoming issue regarding its older generation. Although there is always going to be an “older generation”, the issue now is that generation is larger than ever. In fact, the global population of people over 60 is expected to double between 2015 and 2050. This means that more and more people will have to help their parents or grandparents make decisions regarding their future care — or for that matter, they may have to make the decisions for them. It’s easy to become overwhelmed with your new responsibility if this is happening to you.
Perhaps the most difficult thing for people to consider is whether or not it is time for their loved ones to enter long-term care facilities, or even rehabilitation facilities. You may find yourself searching for a “rehab facility near me” — because not all rehab facilities have to do with substance abuse. Many are meant to help people, especially older people, recover to the point that they can either live independently, or live happily in a long-term care facility. Below, we’re looking into the pros and cons of long term care facilities and rehab facilities — and what you should think about when deciding if it’s right for your loved one.
What Is A Long Term Care Facility For?
Long term care does not always mean permanent care — however, it often can. If you’re looking up “rehab facility near me”, you may or may not be looking for permanent care. However, many long term care facilities offer rehabilitation services. This is in part because, while rehabilitation sometimes has the goal of restoring all lost function, it doesn’t always. This may not be possible in every case — fortunately, long term care is possible for those who still need help after rehab. It’s estimated that about 70% of all Americans turning 65 will need long term care at some point. A long term care facility provides full time care for those that require it, to the extent that they need it. People with physical or mental handicaps may require long term care; in fact, a lot of people that require long term care may be suffering from dementia, or specifically Alzheimer’s disease. As 5.7 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, with the number expected to increase to 14 million by 2050, this is a major reason why people enter long term care facilities. Rehabilitation is, to an extent, an option for those suffering from Alzheimer’s as well. Though there is no known cure for the disease as of now, treatment can help delay its progress. Long term care facilities allow patients to get that kind of care on a regular, near-constant basis.
How Should I Discuss Rehab And Long Term Care With My Loved One?
Rehab and long term care are difficult topics to discuss with a loved one. Many people begin their search for long term care online, looking up terms like “a rehab facility near me” without necessarily discussing it with the person who would need to visit a rehab or long term care facility. Be prepared for a difficult conversation, but don’t let yourself get overwhelmed or defensive. Ultimately, you’re doing the right thing — but it’s never easy for people to accept that they or a loved one needs long term care.
Is It Time For Long Term Care?
Only you — and your loved one’s doctors — can know if it’s time for long term care. Beginning the search for “a rehab facility near me” online is usually just the beginning. But if a person is having a difficult time with everyday tasks, and struggling with making decisions or retaining memories, you should probably consider rehabilitation or long term care. Keep track of their progress or decline; perhaps keep a journal. Yet remember — long term care is always an option, and it’s not a negative one. In fact, it could give you and your loved one new leases on life.
