The Evolution Of Senior Health Care Options

By Author: Shawn Schulze
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Nursing homes have declined in popularity, because more and more options are available to seniors. Home care services and assisted living facilities (ALFs) have grown in popularity of the years, because today’s consumers expect choices for themselves and their loved ones. As a result, senior care facilities are accommodating elders who wish to live independently and safely as their personal needs change.

The Last 30 Years of Senior Care
1980 to 1985: During these five years we experienced a paradigm shift. People developed a sort of aversion to nursing homes. Their philosophies about senior living became more idealistic.

1986 to 1995: Local governments became more interested in defining senior care options and establishing mandates for care.

1996 to 2000: During this prosperous economic time, the senior care industry witnessed a boon in assisted living facilities to satisfy the senior living ideals of independence and quality of care.

2001 to 2010: Although the industry experienced a slight downturn, a renewed effort to make sure seniors receive excellent care has emerged as ...
... the nation’s baby boomers reach retirement age. The focus is on independence and comfort.

The Assisted Living Hybrid
The need for hospitality, housing, and health care bred the blended model of care that we call assisted living. Marked by apartment-style housing, 24-hour staffing, and help with daily chores like dressing or bathing, ALFs also included common living areas like libraries, dining halls, and salons. Services were purchased on an individual basis for customized care.

The Emerging Popularity of Assisted Living Facilities
The assisted living industry has evolved with changing expectations. In the past 20 years, ALFs have included a growing number of options, services and amenities. This freedom of choice is popular among consumers, it gives residents a greater sense of dignity and independence.

Many elders feel that ALFs are a better alternative to nursing homes. According to the Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living, approximately 1 million seniors are residents of assisted living facilities. The average resident is 83 years old, and most need help with at least one daily activity.
About Author:
Shawn Schulze is a co-founder of www.AssistedLivingFacilities.org which is a national resource for senior assisted living. The site contains a nationwide directory of over 40,000 licensed assisted living facilities as well as a senior care blog and other senior living information.