The Life of a Senior, Seen through a Spectrum of Care

In 1988, Ronald Reagan proclaimed August 21 as National Senior Citizens Day to “demonstrate our gratitude and esteem, by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older—places in which older people can participate to the fullest, and can find the encouragement, acceptance, assistance and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity.”

More than 25 years later, seniors continue to prove that a zest for life is not only for the young. And, this growing population of older adults expects to participate in athletic and social activities, and expects to receive quality care for difficult diagnoses and recovery from injuries.

To better understand the different types of senior living (and the corresponding levels of senior care), Pathway Health wanted to share The Senior Living Spectrum, created by SeniorLiving.org. The spectrum charts various options, from adult day care centers—focused on socialization and a watchful eye—to nursing homes and hospice care—providing 24-hour supervision and distinctive end-of-life support.

The Senior Living Spectrum is broken down by the increasing level of supervision (or the decreasing level of independence) versus the cost. The graph even represents in-facility care, which is more specialized, such as temporary rehabilitation and respite treatment or dementia and Alzheimer’s disease programs.

On the lower end of the cost measurement is at-home care. This is service typically provides a second pair of hands (meal preparation, bathing, dispensing medicine) and peace of mind to a family member, who has taken on the larger role as primary care giver. On the higher end are CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) that provide options for both independent living and skilled-nursing care.

At Pathway Health, we strive to assist providers with delivering high-quality service and compassionate care across all venues. Call 877.777.5463 to discuss where you facility falls on The Senior Living Spectrum.

 

Lisa Abicht-Swensen, M.H.A.
Director of Home Care and Hospice
Pathway Health