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In-home care In-home care should always be considered first. Evidence shows that seniors live healthier, happier lives when they remain in their own homes, and it’s also more economical. The elder should be able to still perform the activities on the ADL list and some of the activities in the IADL list, particularly those that are fundamental to their well-being and continued good health when living alone. Assisted living Assisted living offers a combination of residential housing, meals and personalized support services, but it does not provide skilled nursing care. Assisted living is designed for adults who may need help with IADLs such as housecleaning and medication reminders, and who want the security of having assistance available on a 24-hour basis in a residential environment. Meals are usually provided, and often there are transportation services and cultural programs. Continuum of care Continuum of care facilities combine the services of a nursing home with an assisted living center or an adult day care center. The senior can live in his or her own home for as long as possible, without having to relocate when additional care is needed. Continuum of care goes beyond the traditional retirement or nursing home approach because seniors maintain their independence and still receive the care they need.A great resource to consider is the Eldercare Locator. There, you can find your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) information that can help you identify facilities that offer these types of services, as well as tips on helping you decide which housing choice is best.Each continuum of care facility is different, but as the individual’s needs become more and more complex as he ages, a continuum of care facility can provide those services. In addition, certain continuum of care services might only be required for a limited time, such as if someone breaks a leg and requires additional help during the healing process (like with dressing). After the injury or illness has passed, the individual’s care needs can then be re-adjusted.Nursing home These facilities offer higher levels of care that support individual skills and interests in an environment designed to minimize confusion and agitation. Similar to assisted living communities, nursing home facilities provide assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing and other daily activities. Meals, laundry and housekeeping are usually provided within private and semiprivate rooms in a residential-type setting.