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Once you realize your loved one needs additional personal assistance around the house, it can be difficult to figure out the next steps. They could move to an assisted living community, or you could hire a professional caregiver to provide home care. Each choice has its pros and cons, but which one helps your family member maintain or maximize their current lifestyle?
How much home care your loved one needs depends on their mobility and overall health. For example, if they need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like dressing, bathing or housekeeping, having a home health aide stop by daily could help. However, once your family member goes beyond two or three main areas of focus, home care becomes more expensive and harder to coordinate.
Assisted living provides your loved one help with ADLs and access to around-the-clock care. In addition, assisted living communities also have a range of services and amenities.
To help you decide between assisted living and home care, here are some of their pros and cons.
Home care benefits for your family member:
Assisted living benefits for your love:
While there might be an option that’s best for your family member’s needs, it’s important to know some of the common limitations they can run into with home care and assisted living.
Home care cons:
Assisted Living Cons:
There are more reasons to consider moving into assisted living than just ADLs.
Expanded social circle: Moving to an assisted living community is a great way for your family member to meet new people.
Fall prevention: Assisted living communities are designed with safety features and have staff available around the clock in case an accident does happen.
Chronic health problems: If your family member has ongoing health problems, having access to care is vital to their safety. As a Life Plan Community, Freedom Square of Bradenton offers higher levels of care including memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, if ever needed.
Better nutrition: Weight gain or loss can be a sign of serious medical problems or that your loved one is having trouble preparing food. Freedom Square offers restaurant-style dining with well-balanced chef-inspired meals.
Mobility issues: If your loved one is having trouble walking or getting up and down stairs, moving to an assisted living community is one way to ensure their safety.
Difficulty with household chores: It’s easy to fall behind on maintenance and upkeep until it becomes overwhelming. Making the move to a maintenance-free community can free them from the responsibilities of homeownership.
Prevent caregiver burnout: Being the primary caregiver for an older adult is rewarding but it’s also hard physical and emotional work. Feeling burned out can seriously affect your ability to care for your loved one. Making the move to assisted living allows you to reassume the role of a loving family member without the worry of handling their daily care. If you just need a break, respite care at an assisted living community is a great way to get some time for yourself and your family while allowing your loved one to “try out” a community.
Genworth, a national provider of long-term care insurance, conducts surveys to determine the cost of care around the country. In 2023, the national monthly average of assisted living care was $5,350. According to Genworth, the average cost of assisted living in Bradenton, Florida, was $385 a month lower at $4,965. In comparison, the average monthly cost for a home health aide (assuming 44 hours/week) was $6,292 nationally and $6,673 in Bradenton.
NOTE: While this is a good general number to get you started, the cost of care varies based on setting, geographic location and level of care required. These numbers are an average that includes all assisted living from communities that offer semi-private rooms up to those with a full apartment. It also includes a small community with limited activities to ones with resort-style amenities and on-site health care.
As you consider your choices, here are some financing options to keep in mind:
Long-term care insurance: While Medicare and most private health insurance plans don’t cover assisted living, this type of policy typically does.
Medicaid: The federal/state health care program for people with low incomes and limited assets may provide some help if you’ve exhausted other financial resources. Contact your state’s Medicaid agency or Area Agency on Aging to learn more.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The Aid and Attendance benefit, a supplement to VA pensions for older veterans who need help with daily living activities, can help pay for assisted living. VA health care does not pay for room and board at an assisted living community but might cover some additional services. Contact your state or regional VA pension management center for details.
To get all your questions answered about our care and assisted living lifestyle at Freedom Village of Bradenton, use our Community Assistant chat feature or contact us here. You can schedule a personal visit and learn more about our respite care.
For professionals serving seniors, a home can sometimes be the biggest piece of the transition puzzle.But what happens when that home isn't an ordinary property?What if your client owns a $1 million, $2 million or multimillion-dollar luxury or waterfront home?A senior may be downsizing, transitioning to independent or assisted living, moving closer to family, settling an estate, or simply deciding that maintaining a large property no longer makes sense.For senior living professionals, elder law attorneys, estate planners, financial advisors, care managers, move managers and other professionals helping with that transition, there is an important option worth knowing about:The homeowner may be able to sell a luxury property privately and directly, without first putting it on the public market.Why Can Selling a Senior's Luxury Home Be Different?Luxury and waterfront properties can present challenges that aren't always present in a typical home sale.The property may be a waterfront estate on Casey Key, a residence on Bird Key, a condominium overlooking Sarasota Bay, or a distinctive home on Siesta Key or Longboat Key.The owner may have lived there for decades.The home may contain valuable possessions, artwork and deeply personal belongings. It may need updating. Adult children may live hundreds of miles away. And the family may already be coordinating a significant life transition.For some homeowners, maximum exposure to the real estate market is the priority. In that situation, publicly marketing the property may make sense.But other seniors have very different priorities:Privacy. Simplicity. Certainty. Flexibility.They may not want strangers repeatedly touring their home.They may not want photographs of their home's interior and possessions published online.They may not want to renovate, stage or prepare the property for the luxury market.And they may not want their move dependent upon months of marketing, inspections and a buyer obtaining financing.For those homeowners, a private direct sale may be another option worth considering.Can a Senior Sell a Luxury Home Without Publicly Listing It?Yes.A luxury homeowner can explore a direct sale without first broadly marketing the property.Private Luxury Home Sales considers select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast for direct purchase. A homeowner can request a confidential property review before deciding whether a private sale or broader market exposure better fits their objectives.This can allow an owner to explore an offer without first going through the traditional process of preparing and publicly marketing the property.Why Might Privacy Matter to an Older Luxury Homeowner?For some affluent seniors, privacy isn't simply a preference.It can be an important part of the selling decision.Imagine a homeowner who has spent 25 or 30 years in the same waterfront residence.Inside may be family photographs, artwork, collections, jewelry, antiques and other personal possessions.A traditional luxury marketing campaign can involve professional photography, video, aerial photography, online advertising and numerous people entering the property.Some homeowners are completely comfortable with that exposure.Others aren't.A private direct sale provides another route. When Private Luxury Home Sales evaluates a property for potential direct purchase, broad public marketing isn't necessary merely to consider the home. For a senior who values discretion, that difference can matter.Does the Luxury Home Need to Be Renovated First?Not necessarily.One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding high-value real estate is that every luxury property must be extensively updated before it can be sold.A longtime owner may have an exceptional property in an exceptional location while the kitchen, bathrooms, flooring or other features are dated.Preparing that property for the retail luxury market could potentially involve substantial renovations, contractors, staging and months of work.A direct buyer evaluates the property differently.Private Luxury Home Sales considers properties as-is, including residences requiring updates or significant renovation. That can be particularly relevant when an older homeowner or the homeowner's family doesn't want to oversee a major renovation before selling.Which Senior Clients Might Benefit From Knowing About This Option?You don't need to determine whether a private sale is right for your client.You simply need to recognize situations where having another option could be valuable.Consider the homeowner who is:Downsizing from a large luxury residence. Transitioning into independent or assisted living. Moving closer to adult children. Managing a home after the death of a spouse. Selling an inherited luxury or waterfront property. Handling a property through an estate or trust. Living out of state while responsible for a parent's Florida property. Facing substantial deferred maintenance or renovation. Concerned about privacy and public exposure. Looking for greater certainty about the timing of the sale. Those are situations where understanding both the public-market and private-sale alternatives can help a family make a more informed decision.What's the Most Important Question to Ask Your Client?There is one question professionals can ask that may reveal a great deal:What matters most to you when the home is sold?Listen carefully to the answer.Is it achieving maximum exposure to the marketplace?Maintaining privacy?Avoiding repairs?Controlling the closing date?Avoiding repeated showings?Reducing uncertainty?Making the transition as simple as possible?There isn't one correct answer.The homeowner's priorities should help determine which selling strategy deserves consideration.Private Sale vs. Traditional Luxury ListingA private direct sale and a traditional luxury listing serve different objectives.Traditional public marketing provides broader exposure to potential buyers and may create greater price discovery and competition.A private direct sale can emphasize privacy, simplicity, convenience, an as-is transaction and greater certainty about the process.Neither approach should automatically be assumed to be right for every senior homeowner.The value to your client comes from understanding that there is more than one option.One More Resource for Your Professional ToolboxProfessionals serving seniors don't need to become real estate experts.But they are frequently the first people to recognize a problem.A senior living advisor may hear:Mom is ready to move, but we don't know what to do with the house.An elder law attorney may be helping a family deal with an estate containing a multimillion-dollar residence.A move manager may discover that preparing a 4,000-square-foot waterfront home for the market is becoming overwhelming.A financial advisor may have a client whose largest single asset is a luxury property.Knowing that a confidential direct-sale option exists gives you another resource to share with the family.Private Luxury Home Sales specializes in select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast. Its Seniors Blue Book profile specifically includes waterfront estates, Gulf and bayfront homes, boating properties, inherited luxury homes, second homes and properties requiring substantial updating. When You Encounter the Right ClientIf you're working with a senior or family who owns a luxury or waterfront property, consider asking one additional question:Would they like to understand their private-sale option before deciding how to sell the property?There is no obligation to accept an offer simply because the property is evaluated.Sometimes the homeowner will determine that traditional market exposure is the better choice.Sometimes privacy, simplicity and certainty will matter more.Either way, knowing the options before making the decision is valuable.Private Luxury Home SalesSarasota & Florida Gulf CoastPrivate Direct As-Is Close on Your Timeline For more information, please contact Jeff Nemeth at 941-202-6957
Life can take you anywhere until knee arthritis pain slows you down. Whether its walking, golfing, traveling, or playing with your grandkids, the activities you love shouldnt be limited by chronic knee pain. So, whats the solution?For many, knee replacement surgery is an effective option to reduce pain from arthritis and continue to live an active life. The great news is that there are several different types of knee replacement surgery, as well as advanced surgical techniques that can even speed up your healing.Whether you're just beginning to explore treatment options or preparing for surgery, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons at AdventHealth can help you understand the different types of knee replacement procedures and what to expect throughout your recovery journey.Who Needs Knee Replacement SurgeryThe leading cause of knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that gradually wears down the cartilage in the knee joint. As the damage progresses, pain and stiffness can worsen over time, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.Common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:Gradual knee pain that worsens with activityKnee stiffnessKnee swellingPain after extended sitting or restingKnee pain that continues to get worseIf you have osteoarthritis, your doctor will start by offering the most conservative treatments to alleviate your pain.Some initial treatments for knee osteoarthritis might include:Weight lossPhysical therapyAnti-inflammatory medicationsCortisone injectionsViscosupplementation or gel injectionsIf these strategies are not helpful and your condition worsens, your doctor might offer knee replacement surgery as a promising option to reduce pain and return to the active life you love again.Types of Knee Replacement SurgeryNot every knee replacement is the same. While a total knee replacement restores the entire joint with an artificial implant, some patients may qualify for a partial knee replacement, which replaces only the damaged portion of the knee and preserves more of the natural joint.What to Expect Before Knee Replacement SurgeryOnce you and your surgeon have worked together to decide the right treatment plan for you, youll likely need to make an appointment with your primary care doctor to assess your general health and clear you for surgery. You may also need an evaluation and clearance from your dentist.Once this step is completed, youll be able to schedule your knee replacement surgery appointment. You may also need a CT scan of your knee so your surgeon can more precisely customize your replacement to most naturally fit your knee anatomy and movement.In preparation, make sure you have someone who can take you to your surgery appointment and be there as your caregiver after the procedure. This person will be able to drive you home, get any prescribed medications and help maintain your comfort after surgery.Your medical team might also advise you to stop taking certain medications (such as blood thinners, NSAIDs like aspirin or other supplements) up to a week before your surgery date. Youll also be advised to fast prior to surgery. In most cases, you cant have anything to eat or drink (including water) after midnight on the night before your surgery.Some other ways to prepare your home ahead of time include:Setting up your comfortable space for resting and elevating your legClearing the floor and pathways of fall and trip risks such as rugsHaving ice packs frozen and ready for when you return homeWhat to Expect During Knee Replacement SurgeryYour exact recovery will depend on exactly what type of procedure you are having as well as your overall health. Some patients may have outpatient knee replacement surgery and go home the same day. This is especially true for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Other knee replacement procedures may require you to stay in the hospital from one to four days.On the day of surgery, you'll be prepped for the procedure and given anesthesia. Most knee replacement surgeries take about one to two hours to complete. Afterward, you'll recover under close observation before receiving instructions on pain management, medications, physical therapy and follow-up care. To help you safely regain mobility, you'll likely use crutches or a walker during the early stages of recovery.What to Expect After Knee Replacement SurgeryYour surgeon will provide you with a follow-up appointment and a prescription for physical therapy. Physical therapy after surgery is essential to regain your strength and get optimal results from your knee replacement. Physical therapy usually begins immediately after surgery and may continue for up to six weeks.After roughly six weeks, most knee replacements are up to 80% healed. After three months, most achieve 90% healing and by one year, most patients are back to their active lifestyle with nearly complete knee function and comfort.Whole-Person Orthopedic CareOur orthopedic experts offer advanced knee replacement options that put your whole-health first. To learn more about the services we offer, visit AdventHealthPortCharlotte.com.
Looking for comfortable, worry-free senior living in Sarasota? Suncoast Club at Prestancia offers assisted living and memory care options in a beautiful community designed to provide comfort, convenience, and connection.With shared apartments starting at $3,875, residents can enjoy all-inclusive pricing that includes utilities, three meals each day, weekly cleaning, linens and laundry, daily trash pickup, and assistance with daily activities such as dressing, grooming, and showering.Suncoast Club at Prestancia offers a variety of room options, including private standard suites, one-bedroom/one-bath apartments, and one-bedroom/two-bath apartments. Additional services and accommodations are also available to help meet individual needs.Residents can enjoy inviting common areas, comfortable dining spaces, beautiful surroundings, and opportunities for social engagement and activitiesall while receiving personalized support in a welcoming environment.Located at 3749 Sarasota Square Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238, Suncoast Club at Prestancia provides assisted living and memory care with a focus on helping residents enjoy each day with comfort and peace of mind.Call 941-922-1669 or visit SuncoastClubSL.com to learn more and schedule a visit.
Assistance with daily tasks. Companionship at just the right time. Someone you can trust, who brings a smile to your face. Assisted living gives you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy each day and live as independently as possible.THE RIGHT HELP MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.Were proud to be recognized for our high standards for assisted living, earning first place in the 2021 Manatee Readers Choice Awards from the Herald-Tribune.When you want the best care in assisted living, count on the qualified professional help youll receive at Freedom Village of Bradenton. We collaborate with you to design a plan for your specific needs including bathing, dressing, grooming, medication management, and other activities of daily living. Because were a Life Plan Community, youll have the advantage of being able to transition seamlessly to other levels of care if needed.The cost of assisted living is covered by a monthly fee that includes a maintenance-free residence, personalized care, dining and more. Residents have access to all community services and amenities, such as fitness classes, chef-prepared dining, and a full-service salon and barbershop.We also offer respite care to give seniors and their caregivers a break from their usual routine. Seniors can receive the personalized care they need while they enjoy the vibrant lifestyle in our assisted living facility, allowing caregivers the time to rest or take care of other responsibilities. Reservations are required to book a short respite stay.
The Inn at Freedom Village offers 24-hour skilled nursing care designed to provide advanced long-term care with the comfort and support of home. Here's what you or your loved one can expect from our skilled nursing services:Tailored care plans: Residents at The Inn at Freedom Village are treated as treasured family members, and our caring staff takes the time to develop personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. Whether for short-term or long-term stays, we anticipate needs and provide highly personalized care and transition support.Supportive environment: Residents receive care in a supportive environment where their comfort and well-being are prioritized. Our staff assists with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication administration, ensuring residents' needs are met with compassion and dignity.Engaging activities: We encourage residents to stay engaged in activities appropriate for them, offering opportunities for socialization, recreation, and personal enrichment. Our beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds provide serene outdoor spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.Comprehensive amenities: Skilled nursing services and amenities include private or companion suites, all-inclusive monthly fees covering care, living, and dining costs, daily housekeeping and laundry service, and 24-hour nursing care. We also hold regular care meetings with residents and their families to ensure ongoing communication and support.At The Inn at Freedom Village, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive skilled nursing care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for each resident by meeting their individual needs with personalized care and support.
Heartfelt CONNECTIONS is a nationally recognized program designed to provide personalized, activity-focused memory care for individuals impacted by Alzheimer's or other dementias. Here's what your loved one can expect and the benefits they can experience:What your loved one can expect:Personalized memory care: Industry-leading care tailored to the unique needs and abilities of each resident, including specialized Alzheimer's care.Assistance with daily living: Help with tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication management to promote comfort and well-being.Dementia-specific programming: Engaging activities such as arts and crafts therapy designed to stimulate cognitive function and enhance quality of life.Access to community amenities: Enjoyment of amenities such as the salon and barbershop, fitness center, and pool to promote socialization and overall well-being.Small-group activities: Participation in enjoyable group activities within a supportive and intimate environment.Community outings: Regular outings to enhance enrichment and provide opportunities for engagement and socialization.Benefits for your loved one:Promotes dignity and accomplishment: Encourages a sense of pride and achievement in daily activities, fostering dignity and self-worth.Supports engaged eating: Specialized diets and mealtime support to promote enjoyment and nutritional intake.Improves overall well-being: Supports improved self-esteem, reduces fear, anxiety, and frustration, and promotes overall health and well-being.Benefits for you:Peace of mind: Knowing your loved one is receiving the highest quality of care and support.Enhanced relationship: Allows you to focus on cherishing the relationship with your loved one, returning to the loving connection you once shared.Quality time together: Provides opportunities to make the most of your time together, engaging in meaningful activities and interactions.Support for the family: Offers access to resources, counseling, and other services to support you and your family throughout the caregiving journey.Heartfelt CONNECTIONS aims to enrich the lives of individuals with dementia while providing support and peace of mind to their families, fostering a positive and nurturing environment where each resident can thrive.