Understanding types of long-term care

Learning about the various types of long-term care can help you choose the most appropriate options for you or the person you're supporting. Options include:

• Home care. Personal or home health aides can help with bathing, dressing and other personal needs at home, as well as housekeeping, meals and shopping. Home health nurses provide basic medical care at home, such as helping with medications. Meal delivery programs can provide hot meals to your home.
• Day programs. For adults who don't need round-the-clock care, day programs offer social interaction, meals and activities, often including exercise, games, field trips, art and music. Some programs provide transportation to and from the care center as well as medical services, such as help taking medications.
• Comprehensive at-home care programs. A Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provides comprehensive medical care and support services, funded by Medicare and Medicaid, for older people living at home. Availability of PACE services varies by state.
• Senior housing. Many communities offer rental apartments intended for older adults, and rent may be subsidized for some residents. Some senior housing facilities offer meals, transportation, housekeeping and activities.
• Assisted living. Staff members at these facilities help residents with taking medication, bathing and dressing — as well as meals, transportation, housekeeping, laundry and social activities. Some assisted living facilities have on-site beauty shops and other amenities, too.
• Continuing-care retirement community. These communities offer several levels of care — such as senior housing for those who are healthy, assisted living for those who need help with daily activities, and round-the-clock nursing care for those who are no longer independent. Residents can move among the levels of care depending on their needs.
• Nursing home. Nursing homes offer 24-hour nursing care for those recovering from illness or injury and serve as long-term residences for people who are unable to care for themselves. Nursing homes also offer end-of-life care. Services typically include help with eating, dressing, bathing and toileting, as well as rehabilitative therapy.