What Will the Future Look Like for Assisted Living After the Worst of the Pandemic

Author

Alderman Oaks Retirement Center, Inc.

Posted on

Oct 08, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties

Share This
For more information on Alderman Oaks, Click Here.
We hear through media that an effective vaccination needs to be available before everyone will be safe and the virus emergency is behind us. It would be great if an effective vaccine were developed, but experts say that there is no guarantee that one will ever be available. Viruses like the common flu virus tend to keep mutating genetically, so that a modified flu vaccine (with a certain amount of guess work) is provided each year. Typically flu vaccines are only effective for 50 to 60% percent of the viruses which seem to come each winter season. A vaccine has never been developed for the HIV virus! There are many questions which remain to be answered!
All of us, including senior citizens, need to get back to life somewhat like we have been used to living. As an owner of Alderman Oaks Retirement Center I interact with many senior citizens and can say without hesitation that they are more frustrated than most of us as they have been locked down very much tighter for almost three months as this is being written. No visitors! No outings! No gathering together! No communal dining! No group activities! No family visitations!
How can we move forward now without a vaccination? It is my opinion that the most likely solution will be that described by some as the herd solution. In effect this means that most individuals in a society as a whole must obtain immunity for the virus through being positive at some time or having enough contact with the virus to develop immunity without experiencing the symptoms of Coronavirus. There is also a reasonable possibility that the coronavirus will gradually become less potent as a result of the constant process of mutation.
The lowering of the curve that we have heard so much about really only extends the process of the herd solution in a way that our medical community can keep up with providing the appropriate care as the virus continues to spread. The demographic which would experience the most danger with this process is, according to statistics, the older demographic.
As this herd immunity progresses through the community the likelihood of new cases and carriers will eventually decline dramatically. Only at that point will the danger to seniors be significantly diminished. Until that time, it is important that seniors and their families be very diligent in protecting themselves. While the broader society seems to be ignoring many of the suggested precautions, seniors need to stay very vigilant.
My thought process brings two other questions to mind. How will we know when it is safe for seniors and how will we keep them safe (relatively) until that time?
As for us knowing when it will be safe for seniors to resume their normal activities, I think the testing for active COVID-19 will need to show that the percentage of people in the general population that are actually positive and potential disease spreaders is near zero. This doesn't mean that everybody would have had the virus, but it does probably mean that a significant number of our population has. At this point, the odds of a senior who has not ever been exposed to the COVID-19 being exposed would be close to zero as well. There is also potential that a dependable anti-body test will be developed, but up to now all the candidates for anti-body testing have proven unreliable. Also, this herd approach relies on the unproven theory that people cannot be re-infected after having the virus the first time.
There are other possible ways to reach the place where seniors could feel comfortable out in the general community (again other than for the herd solution). Medications like hydroxychloroquine might prove to prevent infection. Prophylactics (meds to treat a disease) might be perfected so that the danger of dying or long-lasting negative effects may become minimal. Any of these developments or a very effective, proven vaccine could make the herd solution totally unnecessary.
I believe that seniors will always need to remain vigil, using the best proven procedures like washing hands, distancing from anyone with virus-related symptoms, and having a mask available in case any situation makes them uncomfortable. New outbreaks could also occur requiring a certain amount of isolation again, but our senior demographic cannot wait much longer for developments in medical science.
In closing, we recently received exciting news that state-mandated COVID-19 testing for Staff and Residents (optional) of Alderman Oaks by the Florida Department of Health on May 31, 2020 revealed no positive COVID-19 cases.
Bio of Darwin Rusty Blix

Rusty is the founder of Alderman Oaks Retirement Center, Inc., an Independent/Assisted Living Facility in Sarasota, Fl. Alderman Oaks opened in 1997 and Rusty still is very active daily.
Prior to designing and developing Alderman Oaks twenty-three years ago, Rusty was a general contractor for 30 years, licensed to build any structure in the State of Florida. Before that Rusty worked in an economic evaluation department for Dow Chemical Co. He earned a bachelors degree and masters degree in Chemical Engineering at Cornell University. He has been married 49 years and has two children, one who is a Doctor of Nursing Practice, working in an infectious disease group.
By Rusty Blix, Founder
Alderman Oaks Retirement Residence

Other Articles You May Like

Transitioning from Assisted Living to a Nursing Home Care; An Inclusive Handbook

As people grow older and their care requirements evolve, there may come a point where transitioning from assisted living to a nursing home is needed. Making this choice can be tough as it involves weighing factors, like health, safety and overall well being. In this article we discuss the different considerations for determining the time to switch from assisted living to a nursing home, the process of transitioning, and how Seniors Blue Book can serve as a valuable resource during this transition. Key Factors to Keep in MindHealthcare Needs; One crucial aspect is assessing the individuals healthcare needs. If the person requires medical attention and monitoring beyond what assisted living offers, moving to a nursing home might be more suitable.Activities of Daily Living (ADLs); It's important to evaluate whether the individual can independently carry out daily activities like bathing, dressing and using the toilet. If these tasks become too challenging in an assisted living setting, opting for a nursing home with enhanced care could be necessary.Safety Considerations; Safety plays a role in this decision making process. If a person faces a risk of falls or other mishaps due to cognitive limitations they might require the level of supervision and safety measures provided in a nursing home.Caregiver Fatigue; When family members or assisted living caregivers feel overwhelmed from the responsibilities of looking after someone it could signal the need to consider moving them to a nursing home where their care requirements can be better addressed. The Transition JourneyMoving from living to a nursing home can be intricate and emotional. Here are some steps to think about...Evaluation; It's important to conduct an assessment of the individuals care needs to determine if transitioning to a nursing home is the decision.Communication; Maintaining honest communication with the individual, family members and healthcare providers is crucial throughout this transition phase. Planning; Thoughtful planning plays a role in ensuring a transition. This may involve coordinating with nursing home staff facilitating the transfer of records and organizing the persons belongings.Support; Providing support for both the individual and their family members is vital during this period. Counseling sessions and participation, in support groups can offer assistance.Adaptation; It's crucial to give the person time to get used to their environment and daily routine at the nursing home. How Seniors Blue Book Can Be of Assistance:Seniors Blue Book serves as a source of information for individuals and families navigating the transition from assisted living to a nursing home. Here's how Seniors Bluebook can offer support: Extensive Directory; Seniors Blue Book presents a directory of nursing homes providing information on services, facilities, costs and contact details. This directory helps individuals and families in finding a nursing home that aligns with their requirements and preferences.Professional Advice; Seniors Blue Book offers expert advice and resources to guide individuals and families through the transition process. Their team of professionals can offer tailored recommendations based on needs and preferences.Educational Materials; Seniors Blue Book provides materials and articles covering topics related to nursing home care, including the transition process, caregiver assistance well as legal and financial planning. These resources assist individuals and families in making informed decisions regarding nursing home care. To sum up the decision to transition from assisted living to a nursing home one should consider factors such as healthcare needs, activities of living (ADLs), safety considerations, as well, as caregiver stress levels.Seniors Bluebook is a resource that provides information and support to assist individuals and families in navigating this difficult transition, with assurance.  

Determining Who is Eligible, for Assisted Living; An In Depth Guide

Assisted living facilities offer a helping hand to adults who need support with tasks while still valuing their independence. It's crucial to understand the qualifications for assisted living if you or your family are considering this option. This article delves into the eligibility criteria the evaluation process and how Seniors Bluebook can be a resource in navigating this decision. Qualifying for Assisted Living;Functional Challenges; Those struggling with activities like bathing, dressing, using the restroom moving around and eating may meet the requirements for living. These challenges can stem from aging, disabilities, illnesses or injuries. Healthcare Needs; Older adults in need of help with managing medications monitoring health conditions and coordinating care could also be eligible for living. Healthcare professionals typically assess these needs.Safety Considerations; Individuals facing risks of falls, accidents or safety concerns due, to cognitive limitations may find comfort in the safety measures provided by living facilities.Social Isolation; Elderly individuals who experience loneliness and could find value in the connections provided by living communities may also be eligible, for these services. The Evaluation ProcessThe assessment process in living typically includes looking into the persons mental capabilities healthcare requirements and safety considerations. This evaluation is usually carried out by a healthcare professional like a nurse or social worker. Might involve; Physical Evaluation; Assessing the individuals capacity to carry out tasks, mobility levels and overall physical well being.Cognitive Evaluation; Examining the persons abilities, including memory retention, logical thinking and problem solving skills.Healthcare Needs Evaluation; Identifying the individuals needs like managing medications monitoring health conditions and organizing care.Safety Evaluation; Recognizing any safety issues such as falls or accidents to determine if the person would benefit from the safety measures offered by living communities. How Seniors Bluebook Can Provide Assistance:Seniors Bluebook serves as a resource guide for individuals and families looking into living options. Here are some ways Seniors Bluebook can be helpful;Extensive Directory; Seniors Bluebook presents a directory of living facilities with information, about services offered amenities available, pricing details and contact information.This directory is a tool, for people and families looking to discover a community that suits their requirements and desires. Expert Assistance; Seniors Bluebook provides expert guidance and support to aid individuals and families in selecting a living community. Their team of professionals can offer suggestions based on needs and preferences. Informative Materials; Seniors Bluebook features materials and articles covering aspects of assisted living, such as eligibility standards, evaluation procedures and caregiver assistance. These resources can assist individuals and families in making informed choices regarding living care.  To sum up determining eligibility, for assisted living involves evaluating limitations, healthcare requirements, safety considerations and social interactions. Seniors Bluebook serves as a source of information offering a range of resources to assist individuals and families in navigating the process of selecting an assisted living community that aligns with their needs and preferences.

Finding Ways to Pay for Assisted Living When Money is Tight; Innovative Solutions and Support

With the increasing expenses associated with living many people and families are confronted with the challenge of financing care when financial resources are scarce. Luckily there exist a range of solutions and support systems to assist in meeting the costs of living for individuals, with limited funds. This article delves into avenues for financing assisted living during times of constraint highlighting how Seniors Bluebook can be a valuable guide throughout this process. 1. MedicaidMedicaid is a program funded by both state and federal governments that offers health coverage to individuals with incomes including coverage for long term care services like assisted living. Eligibility criteria vary by state. Generally require individuals to meet income and asset thresholds to qualify for Medicaid coverage of assisted living services. 2. Veterans BenefitsThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides benefits to veterans and their spouses, which can help offset the expenses associated with assisted living. Programs such as the Aid and Attendance benefit aim to offer aid to veterans in need of assistance, with activities.Social Security benefits and SSI payments can provide assistance to individuals, with resources. While they may not cover the cost of living they can help alleviate some of the expenses. Long term care insurance is specifically designed to help with the expenses associated with long term care services, such as those provided in living facilities. Individuals who hold insurance policies may use them to offset the costs of assisted living depending on the policy terms. Certain states offer Medicaid waiver programs that allow individuals who would otherwise need nursing home care to receive services in living communities instead. These programs often have income and asset requirements. Offer an alternative to traditional Medicaid coverage for those who meet the criteria. Sharing a living residence with a roommate can be a cost option for both parties. Many facilities provide roommate matching services to help residents find roommates and reduce expenses. Seniors Bluebook serves as a resource guide for individuals and families exploring options, for assisted living arrangements.Seniors Bluebook provides a list of living facilities along, with expert advice and educational materials to assist individuals and families in navigating the process of financing care for assisted living. In summary financing assisted living can pose challenges when funds are limited. There are options available to assist in covering the expenses. From Medicaid and veterans benefits to long term care insurance and shared living arrangements there are solutions for those looking to finance assisted living without funds. Seniors Bluebook serves as a resource offering a plethora of information and assistance to help individuals and families discover the assisted living solution, for their requirements.  

Local Services By This Author

Alderman Oaks

Independent Living 727 Hudson Avenue, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

Discover vibrant urban living at our community, conveniently situated in a lively neighborhood near popular attractions, beaches, theaters, entertainment venues, events, fine dining, and shopping destinations. Experience the ease of urban living with our furnished apartments, delightful meals, educational programs, housekeeping services, and flexible Concierge Transportation. Additionally, benefit from our Concierge Health & Wellness Program. Explore a lifestyle that combines convenience and comfort in a thriving community.

Alderman Oaks

Assisted Living 727 Hudson Avenue, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

Discover vibrant urban living at our community, conveniently situated in a lively neighborhood near popular attractions, beaches, theaters, entertainment venues, events, fine dining, and shopping destinations. Experience the ease of urban living with our furnished apartments, delightful meals, educational programs, housekeeping services, and flexible Concierge Transportation. Additionally, benefit from our Concierge Health & Wellness Program. Explore a lifestyle that combines convenience and comfort in a thriving community.