Along the journey of aging, finding the right care solution can be confusing and overwhelming. Understanding the differences between care settings, including assisted living and nursing homes, can help older adults and caregivers find the right solution to meet their specific needs.

Did you know that approximately 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias worldwide? For many who are living with AD or dementia, additional care may be needed as the disease progresses to help keep individuals safe.

Along the journey of caregiving, one may encounter many paths—some are filled with empathy and growth and others with doubt and guilt. All of these emotions and changes are part of a bigger conversation that, when shared with your loved one, may lead to better care and a better quality of life.

Whether you become a caregiver gradually or all of a sudden due to a crisis, many emotions surface when you take on the job of caregiver. And all of your emotions, good and bad, about caregiving, are not only allowed but valid and important.

It is estimated that 44 million Americans provide 37 billion hours of unpaid, “informal” care each year to adult family members and friends with chronic illnesses or conditions that prevent them from handling daily activities such as bathing, managing medications or preparing meals on their own (National Caregiver Alliance).

The long-awaited holiday season is a time for connecting with family and friends and celebrating traditions. This special time, while a joyous one, can also be eye-opening for families with older adults.

Planning for care during a serious illness or after being diagnosed with a life-limiting condition can be very challenging. Many older adults choose hospice or palliative care to support pain management or alleviate discomfort. Nearly 2 million older adults receive hospice care or palliative care each year, and the number continues to grow.

Major life transitions can be difficult, especially when those changes involve an aging loved one. Many caregivers struggle with the best way to discuss sensitive topics with an aging parent and other family members.

The flu can be serious for everyone – but for adults 65 years and older, the risk of flu-related complications and hospitalization is particularly high.

Aging can often present difficult challenges, including complex health issues, declining physical and/or mental capacity, care-related expenses and other financial concerns. It is important to have one’s legal “house” in order to navigate these challenges.

Did you know that the number of adults aged 65 years of age or older is expected to double from 49 million to nearly 100 million by 2060 in the U.S.? Currently, more than 800,000 older adults reside in 30,000 assisted living communities, and that number is expected to continue to increase over the next decade. Knowing the differences between senior living options is important when determining the best setting to support independence and living one’s best life.

Did you know that every day, millions of people are providing care for their spouse, aging parents, or elderly family members, all while keeping up with other responsibilities? Oftentimes, these caregivers may require outside support to ensure their loved ones can have the best quality of life but don’t know where to find such help. Understanding the different services that can be delivered in the home can be overwhelming. Learn the differences between Home Care and Skilled Home Health in today’s episode.