Fortunately, a large percentage of people with Parkinson’s live out their final days at home. Still, a few need nursing home care due to complications such as dementia, or unfortunate family circumstances. So, some people with Parkinson’s face the uncomfortable reality of moving into a nursing home or similar facility. It is uncomfortable, because it is not home, and because your health is compromised. Furthermore, living in a nursing home introduces a new and significant expense.
This article on the USA Today Web site concerned me, and sent me into a planning mode. We all know about the baby boomers. As boomers age they will need more health care services, including nursing home services. These waves come and go in society, and we handle most of them just fine. However, the article points out another health trend that will collide with the baby boomers: obesity. Assuming that the current trends hold true, American obesity will drive more people into nursing homes, at the same time that baby boomers are going to need them.
The economics of nursing home services already make it hard for society to build more. Investors, not-for-profit organizations, or governments have to fund these services. New nursing homes are not appealing investments to many investors, and organizations and governments are not eager to increase funding. Furthermore, nursing homes are hard to staff. Most nurses prefer to work in clinics, surgery centers, or hospitals rather than nursing homes. The USA Today article points out the current shortage of nursing assistants.
This entry is not meant to be discouraging. It is pointing out a phenomenon that is likely to occur in the future, so you can plan. It is another problem that life introduces. You can manage it well, especially since you have some advanced notice. There are a few alternatives to nursing homes. They usually are less expensive, and can be more comfortable and appealing.
A familiar alternative is “assisted living.” With assisted living, a individual or couple usually moves into an assisted living facility. They get to choose what activities they want to perform, and what activities they want to delegate. For example, someone living in an assisted living facility may want to do all of their own cooking and cleaning, but has the facility do their laundry. The facility also schedules nurses, therapists and other professionals to take care of medical needs at regular intervals.
Home health agencies can provide similar assistance to people in their homes. Hospice services can take care of a people’s needs, with an emphasis on comfort, during the final months of life. Insurers and Medicare often pay for a portion of these services.
So, if you are concerned that you may someday be a nursing home candidate, consider a strategy that may allow you to delay moving into a nursing home, or avoid it all together. Your physician can be a resource, and tell you about options in your community. However, a 30 to 60 minute meeting with a social worker will enlighten you even more about your needs and wants. The social worker can help you put a strategy together. Furthermore, it will help you to use your money wisely.