Assess Your Needs
As we age, our needs change. We may live in a home that’s too big for just one person, and difficult to manage. Some of us may develop health problems that make it hard to drive safely, get up the stairs easily or manage personal hygiene. While others seek socialization and activities with people.
These decisions are never easy, and require consideration of many factors. Even if you’re not ready to make a change right now, taking the time to investigate your housing and service options will give you more confidence in making an informed decision that meets your needs.
One key program to support you as you age and your family members is Adult Day Services.
Adult day services are community-based programs which meet the health, social, recreational and therapeutic needs of elderly and disabled adults. These services also provide much needed respite and peace of mind for family caregivers.
There are many other services and supports -- from senior housing and home care to services that help you remain independent in your home -- to help you as you age.
Here are some resources to help you identify what kind of care or services you may want to explore, now or in the future:
A checklist of Your Preferences
Determine what you value most. Use these values to evaluate your decisions regarding which housing options and services will best meet your current and future needs.
A needs assessment worksheet
Sort through the areas you may, or may not, need the most assistance. Responding to the statements as honestly as possible will help you identify those areas most important to you when facing change.
A Financial Assessment Worksheet
Your financial resources will partially drive your decision about future housing and other lifestyle changes.
