This is a follow-on question that many of us have asked. Such as "Who will take care of Me?" "Do you want your Children to take care of You"? etc. While we all do talk about it, we have few resources to turn to. Recently there was a Congressional commission set up to identify problems and resources for long term care. You can search Federal Commission for Long Term Care, Section 643 of the American Tax Relief Act of 2012. Now closed to public comment, but worth keeping an eye on as recommendations from this study are likely to get a lot of attention and incorporated into many facets of related issues.
One of the biggest issues is housing, the idea of living in a old folks warehouse facility is just unappealing to most of us while we recognize that age will take it's toll on our bodies and minds, many do not want to end up on one of these facilities.
Co-housing is an idea that is gaining some momentum, however, most of current programs are very costly to buy-in. Unrealistic for the average person with limited income but the idea is that members assist one another and share costs. A form of co-housing might be an option for the broad population if it can be made to be affordable. If designed properly, it could be the one-stop for an aging population without the means to participate in one of the more expensive options. It could even be a non-profit organization. But it needs real world ideas. So, if you are interested and have ideas, please suggest them. Begin your post with a category such as: Administration, Management, Financial, Activities, Housing Design, Member Cost, Stages of Care, Meeting Caregiving needs, etc.
We need creative ideas that break new ground. We have the one of the best views of the real needs of the elderly, we'll be there ourselves and we should have options.
Comments?
Housing: Since we expect either to be alone or perhaps as a couple, without unlimited funds, we need a place that is affordable, easy to maintain on the inside, accessible, pleasant to live in, privacy, secure, with emergency help nearby. We need social interaction, accessible activities, and responsibility.
Housing: Small cottages arranged in a close community configuration with access to common facilities such as dining hall, lounge, emergency shelter and or incorporated with a large Bed and Breakfast style facility that where studio type apartments are available.
Housing: Lower Occupancy for easier management and more dynamic personal relationships.
Management: What kind of rules for occupants? For families or guardians?
Administration: Live-in Administrators for oversight.
Governance: A board made up of occupants, elected by occupants.
Management: Outsource services such as meal preparation, grounds maintenance, etc. or live-in providers with housing provided.
Just to get the ball rolling. From all of the hundreds of posts I've read this is one of the most qualified group of folks to forge new ground, we have to do it every day.
Thanks again.
Carol