Living Solutions for Aging Loved Ones

Author

AMRAMP PITTSBURGH

For more information about the author, click to view their website: AmRamp

Posted on

Feb 14, 2025

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

Nearly 90 percent of surveyed seniors over age 65 want to stay in their current residence for as long as possible, but many of those homes are not equipped to let them “age in place”. Mental, physical, and financial health are also key considerations in deciding the best living situation for an aging loved one. COVID-19 has now added other considerations about social distancing and confined living spaces to finding the best solutions.

The four main factors that families should consider in this process are the individual’s:

  • physical and mental health
  • access to the community
  • environmental requirements
  • financial factors

Three solution models for independent and semi-independent living are:

  • aging in place
  • multi-generational living
  • assisted living facility

All three of these solutions have been complicated by COVID-19, which we will discuss later. Having an open and ongoing dialog with the loved one and others involved before there is a dramatic change in the individual’s needs allows an opportunity to assess the needs calmly and clearly and develop a plan.

By planning, you won’t be making care and living arrangement decisions when you are in the middle of dealing with a health crisis. If you start planning now before any issues arise, you can space out any work and expenses over a period of time.

Assessing Health Conditions

When assessing the mental and physical health of the individual, you should always be in regular contact with their healthcare professionals to provide factual information and expertise about the specifics of the individual’s situation and how it is likely to evolve. That along with periodic monitoring of how the individual can perform and remember to perform the activities of daily living will help understand both the current level of assistance they need and anticipating the short, medium, and long term assistance needs.

70 percent of people over the age of 65 will require long-term care services. These services include cooking and feeding a loved one, helping with personal care, bathing, and helping conduct daily tasks such as house cleaning and maintenance and running errands.

Additional key statistics regarding long-term care:

  • 78% of adults receiving long-term care at home rely solely on family and friends for assistance
  • On average, caregivers spend about 21 hours per week assisting their patient or family member
  • Over 90% of family caregivers alter their work schedule to care for a loved one
  • More than 10% had to move to be closer to their family member in need of care
Community

Considering what parts of the community are required, important, or enjoyed is integral to maintaining the independence and quality of life of the individual.

  • medical appointments – who do they need to see, for what reason, how often to they have to meet them, where are they located and how will they get there
  • family, friends for care and companionship
  • religious services
  • grocery stores, pharmacy and other retail locations for safe access to food, clothing, household supplies, and medicine
    • This could also be handled by online and in-home delivery options
  • Caregivers
  • Cleaning services and other home maintenance services

Secondary considerations should be given to what they enjoy doing, such as groups or organizations that they belong to, dining out with friends, or going to parks or other recreational activities.

Addressing these in a prioritized manner will help when creating a comprehensive solution.

Environmental

Identifying risks in the individual’s current living environment and removing or mitigating those risks is essential for them staying safe.

Consult with the individual’s doctor or occupational therapist to identify any health concerns, or locate a CAPS (Certified Aging In Place Specialist) professional to help identify possible problem areas in the home, and work with you on providing potential solutions. Typical risks in the home would be stairs – interior and exterior, task areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and bedrooms, and other areas where sitting and standing transitions happen. For individuals who would like to stay in their homes, they should be addressing this with their contractor when making home modifications at any stage of their life but more importantly as they get older.

Financial

Probably the most uncertain and complicated part of this decision is the financial aspect. Working with a trusted financial professional is always highly recommended. You will want to investigate long term care insurance benefits or state programs that the individual may qualify for to cover or help offset some of the costs related to home modifications, in-home care, and assisted living. However, most of the state programs have limits on the amount of income or assets, age requirements, medical diagnosis, or are a one time benefit, but they are available and quite helpful. For home modifications, a trusted contractor can sit and listen to your needs and help price out a scope of work to make those accommodations, including financing options.

Aging in Place

The “Age in Place” model is where modifications are made to the individuals home allowing them to remain safe and independent in the home. This is a great solution for individuals who are aging but have limited or manageable health issues, can accomplish the activities of daily living with little assistance, and want to remain independent. The main concern around COVID 19 with this solution is with outside assistance coming into the home and limited oversight of the individual’s behavior primarily around social distancing.

This is typically done through home modifications and adaptive equipment being installed to remove or lessen risks of injury, like a wheelchair ramp, grab bars and safety railings, walk-in shower, first-floor bedroom, and bathroom, as well as increasing the ease of use of appliances and other task-oriented items like lever-style door and faucet handles, and even voice-activated smart technologies, to maintain the safety and independence.

This is a long term approach and should be part of any home modification and especially those being looked at as the last “big” renovation to the home. When you are ready to start your project, look for a company with accessibilities experience that is familiar with the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act as well as local zoning laws. Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) are trained by the National Association of Home Builders on the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations and training and experience on adapting homes for aging in place and special needs.

Multi-Generational Living

The “Multi-generational Living” model is when the loved one comes to live with a member of the family, for example, aging parents moving into the home of one of their adult children. This is a great solution for individuals who are aging but have some health issues that require more care and monitoring by family members rather than outside assistance, while also addressing the family’s desire to have more visibility of the individual’s behavior and activities.

The main concern around COVID 19 with this solution is with outside factors especially activities of others living in the house such as those in the home who are going to work and grocery stores or other activities that have a risk.

As with the aging in place model it would include adapting bathrooms, entryways, and other modifications or adaptive equipment added to the home depending on the individual’s abilities.

This model could also include the “in-law apartment” or modular cottages, which include separate living areas but are on the same property as the adult child. These are properly equipped and built with the same elements that would be included in home modifications.

 

Assisted Living

The “Assisted Living” model comes in various forms but is usually an organized group of residential living units, that provides various levels of supervision, skilled care, nutrition, and community activities. You can usually find assisted living or similar types of facilities in or around the individual’s current community to maintain some level of access to family, friends, and other important aspects of the individual’s life which will make the transition easier.

This model may not be applicable if the individual has difficulty or can’t accomplish certain activities of daily living, along with moderate, complicated, or chronic health issues that would be difficult or too risky to manage either with in-home care or by family members. In general, this model has had the most difficulty dealing with COVID 19, the main reason being the communal style of living at these facilities of individuals who are at a higher risk for the worst effects of COVID 19.

Being well informed and understanding what services and resources are available will help you, the individual loved one, and others involved in the decision, make the proper choice. Preparation is key to staying safe, so remind your loved ones that although these are home modifications, they’re all safety solutions to help them stay in place longer.

As mentioned before it is important to work with trusted professionals who can provide information and help guide you through these processes. You probably have done diligence when selecting a doctor, financial advisor, or other professionals who you plan to have a long-term relationship with. You should do that same diligence when selecting a contractor and look at it as a long-term relationship rather than a single project.

At Amramp, we see this all too often. As a supplier of home accessibility equipment like wheelchair ramps and stair lifts, and home modifications, we regularly see situations where a well-meaning family member, friend, or contractor did something in the spirit of helping and make the situation better but didn’t fully solve the problem or have a comprehensive approach to deal with this issue and have it be easily adaptable for future issues. You can avoid this by confirming your contractor is CAPS certified, and working with an equipment specialist like Amramp, click here to see our Aging in Place infographic.

As you can see there are many variables to finding the right solution for your loved ones, and there is not a one size fits all solution. COVID 19 has had impacts on all of our lives and the decisions we make, and it is also changing how businesses operate now and in the future. Just like when solving most other problems, get informed, discuss it with the stakeholders, develop a plan, and continue this periodically to evolve the plan as the situation dictates.

Whether a home needs an access ramp at one or more entrances, at thresholds for easy room-to-room access, a stairlift that connects to upper floors, or even safety rails and bars in the bathroom – let us show you all the ways that your loved one can live independently and safely at home.

Amramp’s accessibility experts are CAPS certified and can evaluate any home to determine what changes are needed to make the living space accessible. Amramp offers a free evaluation for your home to determine what changes are needed to provide a nurturing and accessible living space for your whole family. 

Other Articles You May Like

Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients

Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time.  If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.                                          

Why Every Family Needs a Senior Care Advocate: Your Guide to Smarter, Safer Aging

Navigating the complexities of aging can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a senior making plans for your future or a family caregiver trying to provide the best care for a loved one, knowing where to turn for reliable help is critical. Thats where a Senior Care Advocate steps inyour trusted partner in managing aging-related decisions, healthcare planning, and long-term support.What is a Senior Care Advocate?A Senior Care Advocate is a professional who specializes in supporting older adults and their families as they face the many challenges of aging. Their role is part guide, part liaison, and part problem-solver. Whether it's managing healthcare appointments, understanding confusing medical diagnoses, or finding the right long-term care options, a Senior Care Advocate is there to help every step of the way.These advocates bring years of experience in elder care, healthcare systems, and long-term care planning. They often have backgrounds in social work, nursing, gerontology, or senior services. But more importantly, they understand the emotional weight that comes with caregiving and agingand they offer compassion alongside their professional expertise.Do I Need a Senior Care Advocate?One of the most common questions families ask is: How do I know if I need a Senior Care Advocate? The answer depends on your unique situation, but here are a few telltale signs: Youre overwhelmed with coordinating medical care and doctor appointments. You're unsure about long-term care options like assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing. Youre facing legal, financial, or insurance questions you dont know how to answer. Youre a long-distance caregiver who cant always be present. Youre worried about the safety or well-being of a loved one who lives alone. In all these situations, a Senior Care Advocate can provide guidance, coordinate services, and even represent you or your loved one at medical appointments or facility meetings.What Services Does a Senior Care Advocate Provide?Senior Care Advocates wear many hats and offer a wide range of services, including:1. In-Home Care CoordinationIf remaining at home is a priority, an advocate can help make it happen safely. They evaluate care needs, hire and supervise caregivers, and provide training for both families and professionals. They ensure that home care is not just availablebut effective, compassionate, and tailored to the individual.2. Medical Support and NavigationUnderstanding the healthcare system can be confusing, especially when dealing with chronic illness or multiple diagnoses. A Senior Care Advocate will: Arrange and attend medical appointments. Help interpret diagnoses and treatment plans. Coordinate testing, therapies, and even emergency room visits. Act as a liaison between seniors, family members, and healthcare providers. Their support can be life-changing, particularly for seniors managing complex conditions or families trying to stay informed.3. Long-Term Care Planning and TransitionsWhen living at home is no longer possible, finding the right long-term care community is essential. A Care Advocate knows the ins and outs of senior living optionsfrom assisted living to memory care and nursing homes. Theyll arrange facility tours, help with admissions paperwork, and even assist with the physical move.After the transition, they continue providing oversight to ensure your loved one is safe, comfortable, and receiving quality care.4. Benefit Application AssistanceUnderstanding what financial and medical benefits you qualify for can be overwhelming. Senior Care Advocates help determine eligibility and assist with applications for: Veterans benefits Social Security and SSDI Medicaid/Medical Assistance Private insurance coverage This process is often time-consuming and complex, but an experienced advocate can streamline it and ensure nothing is missed.What to Look for in a Senior Care AdvocateNot all advocates are the same. When choosing one, ask about their background, training, and areas of specialization. Dont hesitate to request references or testimonials from other families.A qualified Senior Care Advocate should have: Experience in elder care or healthcare systems Knowledge of local resources and support programs A compassionate and proactive communication style Clear professional boundaries and confidentiality standards Real Support for Real FamiliesAt Solutions for Independence, we understand how emotionally and physically demanding caregiving can be. For over 20 years, we've helped hundreds of seniors and their families navigate the aging journey with confidence. Whether its in-home care planning, crisis management, or senior housing transitions, we provide the kind of expert support that brings peace of mind.We believe in providing Care, Advocacy, and Compassion as a Professionbecause every older adult deserves to age with dignity, and every caregiver deserves support.Why Senior Care Advocacy Matters More Than EverTodays aging population is living longer but often with more complex health needs. Family caregivers are often juggling full-time jobs, raising children, and managing their own health. The role of a Senior Care Advocate is no longer a luxuryits becoming a necessity.By working with a trusted advocate, families can: Avoid caregiver burnout. Prevent medical or financial crises. Make informed choices about care options. Save time, money, and emotional energy. Whether youre planning ahead or in the middle of a crisis, a Senior Care Advocate can be your greatest ally. They provide the tools, knowledge, and hands-on support you need to make the best decisions for yourself or your loved one. If youre feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, remember this: You dont have to do it alone. Let an expert advocate help you find clarity, confidence, and comfort in every stage of the aging journey.At Solutions for Independence we have specialized in and provided Care Advocacy and long-term care planning services for over 20 years and have helped hundreds of seniors and families. Give us a call today at 412.999.7892.

Navigating the Emotional Journey of Moving a Loved One into Senior Living

Making the decision to move a loved one into senior living is never easy. Its a choice that often comes with a swirl of emotionsgrief, guilt, uncertainty, and even relief. For many families, it marks the beginning of a new chapter that is both necessary and deeply emotional.At Assisted Living Locators, we understand the complexity of this transition. We're not just here to help you find the right placewere here to walk alongside you as you navigate the feelings, questions, and challenges that come with it.The Emotional Weight of the DecisionMoving a parent or loved one out of their homewhere memories were made and independence was cherishedcan feel like a loss. Even when its the right time, the reality of change can be overwhelming.Families often struggle with questions like: Are we doing the right thing? Will they feel abandoned? How do we even begin to choose the right place? These are not just logistical concerns. They're emotional ones. And theyre completely valid.You Are Not AloneEvery family has a unique story, and no two transitions look the same. Thats why a one-size-fits-all approach doesnt work. At Assisted Living Locators, we start by listeningreally listeningto your concerns, your hopes, and your loved ones needs.We help you: Understand the options available, from independent and assisted living to memory care and beyond. Navigate conversations with compassion, helping your loved one feel heard and included in the decision-making process. Find peace of mind in knowing that a knowledgeable, local expert is by your side. More Than a Placement ServiceWhat sets us apart is that were not just matching families to facilities. Were guiding people through one of lifes most sensitive and significant transitions. We offer not only practical guidance, but emotional supporthelping you make decisions with confidence, clarity, and care.Well tour communities with you, ask the hard questions, and advocate for what matters most to your family. And we do it all at no cost to you.A Step Toward Peace of MindIts okay to feel the weight of this moment. It's okay to need help. And it's okay to prioritize both your loved ones well-being and your own peace of mind.Let us be a trusted partner in this journeyso you dont have to walk it alone.Contact us today at pghassistedliving.com or (724) 972 -3202 to take the first step. Were here to help with heart, knowledge, and unwavering support. 

Local Services By This Author

Amramp

Ramps , , Pennsylvania,

Amramp is a leading provider of modular wheelchair ramps, grab bars and other accessibility solutions for both residential and commercial settings. We ensure that everyone has equal access to public spaces, businesses and homes.  We offer a wide range of wheelchair ramps to provide safe and convenient access for individuals with mobility challenges. Our modular wheelchair ramps are customizable to fit any space, making them suitable for both temporary and permanent installations. These ramps are built to last, with a durable aluminum construction that can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions.The safest and most reliable wheelchair ramp: Sturdy steel - Fireproof, free from splinters and rot.Slip resistant - A mesh design with a raised grip surface and Amramp Grip coating that provides extra stability with dispersed particles in the paint. 5 Foot by 5 foot surface - Installments that land on a clear, level, solid, 5 foot by 5 foot surface to allow for turning in a wheelchair.  Unique open mesh surface deflects ice, mold, snow or any moisture collection from rain. Fire resistant - Fireproof materials that provide safe exit in an emergency versus materials such as wood which can fuel a fire or aluminum which can melt from heat. No permit required - Amramps patented bolt together system usually does not require a building permit, excavation or digging up your property. ADA compliant - The ADA guidelines are a starting point for all ramp designs and installation. Black powder coating - Black color that induces self-defrosting of the ramp surface in snow and icy conditionsRegardless of the ramp type, we ensure that our wheelchair ramps meet the necessary accessibility standards.  By offering a wide range of wheelchair ramp solutions, we help individuals with mobility challenges regain independence and access to public spaces, businesses, and home with ease.  We are factory-trained accessibility specialists in ramp design and installation.  We can usually install the wheelchair ramp within 24-48 hours after we receive your approval any time of the year. We do not usually need building permits and since we do not need to excavate your property we can install in almost any weather even in winter!  We provide a free evaluation and consultation to determine what ramp is best for your needs. During this time we will measure your property, show you pictures of homes with similar situations and be available to answer any questions you may have about our products. Costs vary with the size of the wheelchair ramp and the length of time the ramp is needed. Please contact us and your local Amramp expert will provide a FREE estimate in a matter of days.If youre looking for affordable solutions to make your home safer and more accessible, you came to the right place. Amramp specializes in FREE, no obligation home estimates to help you find the right accessibility product that fits your needs and budget.  Give us a call today!