Collin County Living Well Magazine Summer 2014 | Page 41

By Helen Foster

I

When is the Right Time to Explore
Assisted Living or Nursing Care?

f you are a caregiver for a family member, you know that it
can be extremely fulfilling, but
at times challenging. You may have
asked yourself at one point or another
how long you can do it before needing
additional resources – other family
members, more “housekeeping” assistance, home care, assisted living or
nursing care.
“There is a tendency to try to manage on your own,” says Kelley Weems,
social worker at St. Anna’s Residence,
a nursing care community located in
New Orleans’ Garden District. “However, it’s good to explore your options,
so you have a plan in the event that
more care is needed than you can realistically provide.”
In some cases, a change in health
might create an obvious need for assisted living or nursing care, and pro-

fessional caregivers will offer support
in decision-making. When the need is
less immediate, decisions about residential care may be left to the caregiver, which can be difficult.
“Caregivers often contact us when
they realize the need for care is all
day, every day. And, they feel such a
sense of relief once their family member is here.” Weems says.
The timing of the decision depends
on the unique circumstances of each
family, and the key is to regularly evaluate your situation, to ensure quality
of life for all involved. Seek input from
trusted advisors – including friends,
family, clergy and professional caregivers. Also, keep in mind that even if
you can provide care in the home, assisted living or nursing care might still
be a better option because these communities balance care with attention
to social, spiritual and psychological

wellbeing – in a secure and comfortable environment.

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