Assisted Living
Find the right match for your assisted living needs
Making a decision about the care of a loved one is a difficult feat, yet many families must face this task without proper resources. The Census reports there is a growing percentage of elderly, they account for 1 in 8 Americans. It also projects continued growth as the baby boomers reach their elderly years, potentially increasing this number to 1 in every 5 Americans. In South Carolina, adults over the age of 65 represent 14.7 percent of the population, which is 1 percent above the national average. These are important facts to consider when caring for elders and considering assisted living in Greenville. As this population grows, families must be prepared to address long term care plans. Many may not know where to begin regarding finding an assisted living community in Greenville. However, there are numerous local and national resources available to help families make informed decisions with the simple click of a mouse.
where should you start looking?
The Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living (CCAL) is a non- profit organization that educates consumers, while advocating for, “Person-centered living principles, policies, practices and services for elders.” This organization was responsible for coining the term “person centered living” or PCL. It’s a reminder that dignity must be maintained when it comes to caring for those who are aging or have disabilities. PCL advocates argue for humanity and freedom of choice for seniors. Their website is an excellent starting point when it comes to learning the basics about personal care options. It includes resources such as consumer empowerment, terminology reviews, healthcare explanations and injury prevention tips. With the tagline “Nothing About Me Without Me,” it also serves as a vital source for ethical standards when considering the future our seniors.
The Center for Excellence on Assisted Living (CEAL) is another useful resource when it comes to planning. This group includes 11 national organizations who work collectively to promote excellence in assisted living. It was created through an initiative known as the Assisted Living Workgroup (ALW), which was requested by the U.S. Senate Special Committee in 2001. One part of their mission is to act as an objective resource center. CEAL offers various resources to the public as well; including research, training and consumer information. Families can also find links to resources in every state. CEAL makes searching for local Greenville resources simple and convenient.
state sponsored resources
Families who might be conducting research or searching for an assisted living community in the Greenville area should also visit the SC Access site. This free and confidential site is offered as a part of the program of the Lieutenant Governor’s Office of Aging initially funded by a grant from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the US Department of Health and Human Services. It provides resources for older adults, people with disabilities, family members and caregivers. With simple navigation, a calendar of relevant events, telephone support, and search tools; this service provides a broad range of support for South Carolinians.
Whether planning for long term care locally or searching for an assisted living community in Greenville, there are various reliable resources online that allow families to make an informed decision. With proper planning, families can create an agreeable outcome that lessens financial burden, saves time and limits stress. Most importantly, families can determine the most ethical, inclusive solution that keeps their elders safe and comfortable.