By Jenn Gomer, RN, BSN
Care Patrol of Denver
Navigating your care options can be overwhelming, especially as you age. Current research suggests the probability of becoming partly disabled or of being cognitively impaired is 68 percent for people age 65 and older. It’s challenging to figure out what assistance you need, how to pay for it, and when it may be time to move out of your current home. These decisions should be made while you’re healthy and able to participate in the discussion. You don’t want to wait until you are in a crisis situation or suffer a debilitating injury to make these decisions.
Staying healthy as you age needs to include good nutrition, taking your medications as prescribed, living in a safe environment with lower chance of falls and help if you need it, and keeping your mind active with social interactions and activities. There are a variety of options available. Getting involved with senior resource centers, community groups, and your church is a good start. If you do not need assistance but would just like the social stimulation, then an independent living facility may be a good option for you. Assisted living facilities can offer a variety of options as well. Memory care is appropriate when someone is unable to be safe alone even for short times, or wanders out of the home.
There is nearly 420 independent living, assisted living, or memory care options on the Front Range and CarePatrol knows most of them very well. To help you and your family navigate these decisions, New West Physicians can refer you to a free service called Care Patrol. Care Patrol’s professional staff know specifics about nearly all of the senior housing options on the Front Range. Care Patrol will meet with you in person to discuss your care needs and finances, and will develop a personalized plan. If moving to a facility is appropriate for you or your loved one, Care Patrol will arrange tours of potential facilities. The Care Patrol staff will tour with you and help you ask the right questions, so that you know exactly what services are provided and the financial commitment. Care Patrol also coordinates with your primary care physician. For more information, call (720) 675-8308, or email jenng@carepatrol.com.
Tags: behavioralhealth, bloodpressure, denver, diabetes, health, newwestphysicians