Making the decision to choose long-term care services for your loved one can be hard. Most families struggle to know when the time is right for additional assistance. While many older adults can still live independently at home, some will need round-the-clock support.
At Northstar Post Acute, we know that this is a big decision. We all want the best for our family. And you need to know whether this is the right choice. To help you, we offer you this guide to help you determine when long-term care services make the most sense and avoid a crisis.
What Are Long-Term Care Services?
Long-term care services involve providing continual medical or personal care for a patient. This can be due to age, illness, cognitive decline, or a disability.
Short-term care services are designed for patients who may be recovering from a hospital visit or surgery. These people will eventually return home. Long-term care, however, meets patients’ needs over an extended period of time.
What Services Are Provided?
Typically, the following are offered to patients:
- 24-hour skilled nursing care
- Medication management
- Assistance with daily living activities
- Chronic disease management
- Meal planning
- Rehabilitation therapies
- Recreational and social activities
- Personalized care planning
What Are the Signs That It’s Time for Long-Term Care?
The team at Northstar Post Acute understands that each situation is different. But common signs that may indicate that the patient needs this level of care include:
- Mobility issues: If the patient keeps falling or can’t safely move around their home, these are key indicators.
- Inability to do daily living tasks: If bathing, dressing, and grooming have become difficult to do, you should consider long-term care services. If the patients continue to try and do these on their own, they can become extremely frustrated.
- Managing many chronic conditions: Many conditions will require the oversight of skilled nurses. These could include heart disease, advanced diabetes, stroke, kidney disease, and others.
- Onset of cognitive issues: Dementia or memory loss can lead to risky behaviors like wandering or forgetting to take medications. Living inside a facility can prevent these situations.
- Caregiver burnout: If a caregiver is experiencing stress, exhaustion, or issues balancing their own life, then it might be time to hand the responsibility onto someone else.
Benefits of Choosing Long-Term Care Services from Northstar Post Acute
At Northstar Post Acute, we offer both long- and short-term care. When you select our facility, not only are you working with a dedicated staff who truly cares for our residents, you’ll also receive:
- 24/7 nursing care
- Personalized care plans
- Access to rehabilitation services
Our facility also offers opportunities for social engagement in a safe and comfortable living environment.
We know that you’re worried about moving your loved one into a long-term care services facility. But our promise to you is to always provide your loved one with the support they require. Our residents can still enjoy their independence – without having to struggle with daily tasks and fear of potential aging complications.