It’s a fact that America is getting older. In 2010, people over the age of 65 made up about 13% of the population, and by 2050 that number is expected to reach about 21%. This is due largely to the baby boom generation hitting retirement age, as well as younger people not having as many children as they used to. Baby boomers also aren’t in the greatest health as they age, which means there is a big market for services for the elderly. This can range from in home supportive services to assisted living to 24-hour care in a nursing home. Each of these options has both advantages and disadvantages.

For those seniors who are largely self sufficient but may want or need help with a few minor tasks such as cooking and cleaning, assisted living can be a good option. IN assisted living, you usually live in an apartment or condo community and have your own living unit and can come and go as you please. Whatever services you need are provided for you, and the price reflects that. Assisted living can include everyday services such as cooking and cleaning, but many also offer more in-depth services such as help with taking medication. One of the big advantages of assisted living is that you can customize the services you need. Drawbacks include the cost and the fact that some people don’t want to move out of their home to receive the services.

For those who need help but would rather stay in their homes, there are companies that provide in home supportive services, with senior helpers who provide help with bathing and dressing, cooking and cleaning, transportation and a number of other services. The advantage to homecare services is that you get to stay in your home. About 80% of all seniors receiving these services do so in their home. A disadvantage can be the cost and that Medicare and private long-term care insurance may not pay for these services.

For those who need a higher level of elder care, a nursing home may be necessary. Nursing homes usually are for people who have chronic illnesses that make it difficult to care for themselves or people with memory conditions who can’t stay in their own homes and receive in home supportive services. Alzheimers disease is now the sixth-leading cause of death and one in three seniors has Alzheimers or another memory issue when they die. These people need much higher levels of care than just home assistance. The advantage of such care is that it provides a setting to take care of those who can’t take care of themselves. A big disadvantage is that it costs much more than other types of senior care.

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