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Retirement options

Canada’s retired population has grown and continues to grow at an alarming rate. In the late 1970s, about 2 million retired people lived in Canada. By 2017, it was over 6 million. This number will likely climb higher as the years go on.

With the retired population growing so much, the younger generations will soon face difficult decisions. The biggest question will be what to do with such a large number of people.

If you’re the caregiver of anyone approaching retirement age, you’re probably wondering about retirement options. This can be a confusing choice. Most of us want what’s best for our loved ones while also finding something that we can afford and manage.

Read on to learn more about your options.

Evaluate Your Situation

The care you should look into for your ageing relatives depends on how independent that relative is. If your ageing relatives are still capable of living on their own, an independent living community might work best.

If the person has more advanced issues and needs, they’ll need an environment that provides more care. Many experts recommend the least restrictive care model. This means that the person should never be in a situation that isn’t necessary.

Full-time nursing care should be a last resort. Your relative may need it at some point but don’t commit to it until you’re sure.

Independent Living

Independent living is the best option for those who are still able to care for themselves. This person might have minor medical needs, but they don’t need a doctor or nurse at their constant call.

Independent living facilities offer more social options and activities than other types of retirement facilities. The facility arranges many of the activities, but some also offer fitness facilities, libraries or other amenities.

The freedoms and privileges that independent living facilities offer cost money. Independent living facilities come with high monthly bills. You need to pay your own share of these costs on your own in most cases. The government offers some aid for those who need it.

Assisted Living

The big difference between independent and assisted living communities is that those in assisted living need a bit more care. A doctor might describe a patient in an assisted living situation as being at-risk but stable.

Most people wouldn’t expect someone in an assisted living facility to have a serious medical episode. They also wouldn’t be surprised to hear that it happened.

Your loved one will find no shortage of activities in an assisted living facility. As with independent living, these services do not come for free. Assisted living communities often charge between $2,000 and $4000 per month.

At-Home Care

If your loved one needs regular care, but can mostly take care of themselves, consider at-home care. At-home care works best for those who don’t need that much care and are more introverted.

At-home care allows a person to age in place while maintaining a close relationship with friends and family. Many people think of this as being the most convenient choice, but that convenience comes at a cost.

Most homes don’t have bars near the toilet or shower. They also don’t have chair lifts for those with mobility issues. If your loved one needs these accommodations, you’ll need to install the necessary equipment in their home.

Respite Care

Respite care is unique among senior care options. Those choosing respite care don’t expect it to last long.

Doctors created respite care for the good of caregivers as much as patients. The process of ageing and the associated health risks affect both the ageing person and their caregivers. Sometimes, caregivers need time to cool off so that they have the energy to keep going.

Doctors and nurses administer respite care during the day and at night, the primary caregivers are responsible. This kind of care lasts from one day to one month.

Memory Care

Sometimes, our loved ones have problems that we can’t handle. At this point, think about investing in complex care.

Dementia is among the most common ailments that senior citizens suffer. About 7% of senior citizens in Canada have dementia, but that percentage doubles every 5 years.

Memory care units put those with dementia or other cognitive issues in a controlled environment. Staff monitor memory care patients so they don’t hurt themselves or wander away.

Nursing Homes

Many of us hope that we never have to put someone we love into a nursing home. Unfortunately, we don’t always have a choice. Some people need around-the-clock care and nursing homes can give that level of care.

While you do hear stories about nursing homes and what happens in some of them, not all are low-quality. Many of them offer a lot of activities and well-trained staff. If that’s not enough, you can look at the records and see if the facility has committed any major violations.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is the worst-case scenario for retirement options. These facilities treat dying patients. For those with cancer, advanced Alzheimer’s, or other terminal conditions, hospice care offers the best environment.

Hospice workers are trained to keep their patients happy rather than try to slow or reverse their illness. Sometimes, comfort is the best thing you can offer.

Retirement Options and How to Decide Which Is Best

Your loved one’s health determines what their best retirement options are. We’ve discussed your choices and how to decide between them here.

You can learn more about retirement and senior care by reading our blog. We encourage you to contact us if you’re looking for a retirement community in Vancouver.