As our parents age, many of us will encourage them to move into retirement or assisted living communities.  While useful for many, families should also consider Age in Place or Home Transition options.

True Life Experience:  At 90, Leslie had made a successful transition to old age.  Her life was busy taking care of herself, following seasonal sports, reading, and working crossword puzzles.  One of her two sons lived close by and neighbors looked out for her. 

Leslie never thought about being old or getting old; then her daughter-in-law died and 2 weeks later her son.  Leslie was grief stricken and she isolated herself.  Months later, she emerged from the sadness to resume her routine. 

The first stop was a doctor’s visit to check on her leg.  This time, the leg needed more than a round of antibiotics and a dressing.  Leslie was hospitalized to open up circulation so the wound could heal. 

While hospitalized, Leslie’s family became convinced she could no longer live alone.  Too tired and worn out to care, Leslie conceded.  Within a few days, the arrangements were made and 50 years of memories were moved.  Leslie never said good-bye. 

A month later, Leslie was discharged to her new Assisted Living apartment.  Her challenges were many: rules and regulations, grief and loss, separation-anxiety, not to mention complex care for the wound.

As Leslie settled in, management became more concerned about her wound care. Guidelines for care in Assisted Living suggest which residents can be accepted and when they maybe too sick to stay.  Leslie was at risk.  Earlier promises meant management would adjust the rules.  Leslie stayed. 

Six months later with no progress in wound healing, a diagnosis of MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) was made and the nightmare escalated.  Concerns about her care and fears around MRSA resulted in the dreaded 30 day notice: clean up the wound or leave.

Wounds don’t heal on demand.  With her home sold, Leslie faced limited options: secure an apartment and organize private care, locate another facility that would accept her or move to a nursing home.  Luckily, Leslie found another facility but for how long?

Lesson Learned:  In an effort to cope with aging and medical needs, Assisted Living was selected.  Was it the optimal solution?  Professional planning explores options: Age in Place, Home Transitions, and Assisted Living, to ensure security in later life. 

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