As we age, many dream of staying in our homes for as long as possible. However, there comes a time when older adults may need more help than family members can provide. That’s where private homes for elderly care come into the picture, offering a perfect blend of independence, support, and the familiarity of home.
These homes provide a cozy, personalized alternative to nursing homes or larger assisted living communities. In this article, we’ll explore how to find a private home for elderly care near you, the benefits of these care options, and how to get started with the right care for your elderly loved one.
What Are Private Homes for Elderly Care?
A private home for elderly care is exactly what it sounds like—a home setting where older adults receive personalized care in a small, family-like environment.
Unlike nursing home care or larger assisted living communities, which often house many residents, a private care home generally hosts a small number of residents — 2 to 10.
This setup allows for personalized care, where each resident gets the attention and care they need, both emotionally and physically.
Services offered in Private Homes
No two private homes are the same. They may differ in the type of services provided, or the quality of service. Here’s a comprehensive list of services typically offered in private homes for elderly care.
- Assistance with personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting)
- Medication management and administration
- Meal preparation and dietary monitoring
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- 24-hour supervision and care
- Help with mobility and transferring (e.g., from bed to wheelchair)
- Transportation services for medical appointments or social activities
- Social and recreational activities (e.g., games, exercise programs, community outings)
- Memory care services for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s
- Physical therapy and exercise routines
- Companionship and emotional support
- Help with managing chronic illnesses
- Specialized care for residents with medical conditions
- Respite care for short-term stays
- Hospice care for end-of-life support
- Personalized care plans tailored to individual needs
- Safety and security features (e.g., fall prevention, secured entry)
- Coordination of health services with external healthcare provider
Benefits of Private Homes for Elderly Care
One of the biggest advantages of a private home for elderly care is the personalized care and home-like setting. Unlike larger facilities where caregivers are often stretched thin, private care homes usually have a small staff-to-resident ratio, meaning your loved one will get the care and attention they deserve.
Here are some key benefits of choosing a private home over a bigger facility.
1. Personalized Attention and Care
In a private care home, caregivers are better able to provide personal care services tailored to your loved one’s needs. Whether it’s assisting with medication, helping with personal hygiene, or simply offering companionship, the focus is on individualized care.
2. Home-Like Environment
Unlike nursing homes or larger assisted living communities, a private home offers a more comfortable and intimate setting, which can help your elderly loved one feel more at ease. These homes are often designed to mimic a traditional family home, making the transition easier for seniors who prefer to stay in a familiar environment.
3. Smaller Resident Numbers
With fewer residents, caregivers can focus more on providing high-quality care, ensuring that each resident’s emotional, physical, and social needs are met. At Amy’s Eden Senior Care in Nevada, for example, homes typically accommodate only two residents, which creates a family-like atmosphere and ensures skilled nursing care without the caregiver being overwhelmed.
4. Flexibility in Care Plans
Private care homes are often more flexible than larger facilities when it comes to adjusting care plans. Whether your loved one needs assistance with personal care, mobility, or managing a chronic condition, a private care home can adapt to these needs more easily.
Types of Private Homes for Elderly Care
Private homes may be called several names, but their underlying scope and services remain the same.
Choosing the right type of private home for elderly care depends largely on the specific needs of your loved one. Some seniors may need assistance with daily activities but can still maintain a level of independence, while others may require round-the-clock supervision or specialized care for dementia.
Below, we’ll expand on the different types of private homes.
Assisted Living Homes
Private assisted living homes also known as adult care homes or group homes are designed to help seniors with daily tasks, while also promoting as much independence as possible.
These homes are often small, with a limited number of residents, which allows for more personalized care. Residents in these homes generally need assistance with activities such as:
- Dressing and grooming
- Bathing and toileting
- Medication management
- Meal preparation
The advantage of private assisted living homes is the intimate, home-like environment. The smaller scale of these homes enables caregivers to focus more on individual residents, ensuring they receive tailored attention. For older adults who require daily care but still value their privacy, many private care homes offer private or shared rooms.
In addition to assistance with personal care, these homes often provide social activities and communal dining, encouraging socialization among residents. This setup helps prevent loneliness and isolation, which can be common among elderly people who live alone.
In terms of care, assisted living homes are licensed and regulated by state agencies to ensure that they meet certain standards.
Private Memory Care Homes
Private memory care homes specialize in caring for seniors with cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. These homes offer a secure environment specifically designed to keep residents safe and comfortable while providing the specialized care they need.
Services provided in private memory care homes include:
- 24-hour supervision and care
- Structured daily routines to reduce confusion and anxiety
- Assistance with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, and toileting
- Specialized activities designed to stimulate cognitive function
- Medication management
One of the most important features of private memory care homes is the secure environment. Seniors with dementia are at risk of wandering, which can be dangerous. These homes are designed with safety in mind, often featuring locked doors and enclosed outdoor spaces where residents can safely enjoy fresh air.
Private memory care homes offer more personalized care than larger memory care units found in traditional assisted living communities or nursing homes.
Caregivers in these homes are specifically trained in dementia care and can provide the attention, patience, and understanding that seniors with cognitive impairments require. Resident-to-staff ratio is also low ensuring that each resident’s unique needs are met.
Residential Care Homes
Residential care homes are just like assisted living homes. They provide 24-hour living arrangement support for seniors who require ongoing assistance with daily activities and health management. These homes also cater to seniors with chronic health conditions, mobility issues, or need more intensive long-term care. Services provided in these homes typically include:
- Daily care such as bathing, dressing, and feeding
- Nursing care for managing medical conditions
- Assistance with mobility and transferring
- Medication management and administration
- Help with managing chronic illnesses
These homes are suitable for seniors who can no longer live independently and require ongoing support but prefer the smaller, home-like setting over a nursing home or large assisted living community.
Families often choose residential care homes because they offer a more personal and compassionate environment for their loved ones, with caregivers who can devote more time to each resident. Residents are usually fewer than twenty (20).
Residential care homes also offer flexibility in care plans, adapting to the changing needs of their residents. If a resident’s health declines or they require more assistance over time, these homes can adjust the level of care provided without the need for the resident to move to another facility.
Comparison Of Private Care Homes To Larger Senior Care Communities
Here is a tabular comparison of private care homes and larger facilities.
| Private Homes | Larger Senior Care Facilities | |
|---|---|---|
| Size and Number of Residents | Typically house 2-10 residents, offering a more intimate setting. | Often have 50-100+ residents, providing a more social environment. |
| Staff-to-Resident Ratio | Higher staff-to-resident ratio, allowing for more personalized care. | Lower staff-to-resident ratio, with care shared among many residents. |
| Cost | Generally less expensive than larger facilities due to fewer amenities | Can be more expensive, especially in upscale facilities with luxury services. |
| Cost Transparency | Costs are usually straightforward, covering basic care with minimal extras. | May have hidden fees or additional costs for specific services like advanced care or activities. |
| Social and Recreational Activities | Fewer organized activities but more one-on-one engagement. | Wide range of organized social and recreational activities. |
| Privacy | Offers more privacy, often with private rooms. | May have shared rooms; private rooms are available but can be costly. |
| Family Involvement | Families may have more direct involvement in daily care. | Families are welcome, but involvement may be more formalized and structured. |
| Meals and Nutrition | Meals are often home-cooked with flexible dietary adjustments | Meals are typically prepared in bulk and may have less flexibility for individual preferences. |
Costs of Private Homes for Elderly Care
One of the most important factors when considering a private home for elderly care is the cost. The cost of living in a private care home can vary significantly depending on several factors.
Average Costs of Private Homes
Several factors can affect the cost of private homes including the level of care needed, the location, and the amenities provided. Below are some factors that influence the overall cost:
- Type of care provided: Seniors needing minimal assistance with daily activities will incur lower costs than those requiring 24-hour care or specialized memory care.
- Location: Private homes in urban or high-demand areas typically cost more than homes in rural regions.
- Private room vs. shared room: Residents who opt for a private room generally pay more than those in a shared living arrangement.
- Additional services: Specialized services such as physical therapy, dementia care, and frequent medical attention may raise the overall cost.
- Home size and luxury: More luxurious residential homes or those with a limited number of residents may come with a higher price tag due to the personalized attention and upscale amenities offered.
On average, private care homes may range from $3,000 to $7,000 per month, depending on the above factors. This can be less expensive than nursing home care, which typically costs upwards of $8,669 per month.
Payment Options
Paying for care in a private home can be challenging, but there are several payment options available to help families manage the cost.
Private Pay
Many families rely on private pay (out-of-pocket payments) to cover the cost of care in a private home. This may involve tapping into personal savings, retirement accounts, or the sale of assets. Some families may also use funds from a reverse mortgage to help pay for long-term care.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance can help in covering the cost of care in a private home. Policies vary, but most will cover a portion of the cost of care in licensed residential care homes, including private homes, assisted living communities, and even in-home care services. It’s important to check the policy’s coverage for the specific type of care required and whether the policy will pay directly to the facility or reimburse you after payments are made.
Medicaid
Medicaid may cover the cost of certain services in a private care home, especially if the facility is licensed and meets state regulations. Medicaid is typically reserved for low-income seniors, and eligibility varies by state. Some states have Medicaid waivers that can be applied to cover long-term care in private care homes or group homes. If your loved one is eligible for Medicaid, it’s important to find out if a home accepts it before you commit.
Veterans Benefits
Veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for the Veterans Aid & Attendance benefit, which provides financial assistance for those who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. This benefit can be used to help pay for care in private assisted living homes or group homes. Veterans must meet specific eligibility requirements, including having served during wartime and meeting income and asset limits.
PACE Program (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
The PACE program is a Medicare and Medicaid program that provides comprehensive medical and social services to frail elderly people who live at home or in a private care home. This program is designed to keep seniors in their communities and out of nursing homes for as long as possible. Seniors enrolled in PACE receive medical care, transportation, meals, and other essential services, often at little or no cost.
How to Find Private Homes for Elderly Care Near You
With so many options, it can be overwhelming to find the right private home for your elderly loved one. However, with a few steps, you can simplify the process and make sure you’re choosing the best care option for your loved one.
1. Research Care Homes in Your Area
Start by researching care homes in your area using search terms like “private care homes for elderly near me” or “homes for seniors.”
Many senior care directories online allow you to filter results based on your location, the level of care needed, and your budget. Additionally, ask for referrals from local continuing care retirement communities, social workers, or healthcare providers.
2. Check Licensing and Certifications
Make sure that the care homes you are considering are properly licensed. In states like Nevada, private care homes need to meet specific licensing requirements to ensure they are providing appropriate care.
A licensed residential care home must meet certain safety and health standards, which helps guarantee the quality of care provided. Look for homes that specialize in the type of care your loved one needs, such as memory care or assisted living homes.
3. Visit The Homes in Person
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, schedule visits to the homes you’re considering. When visiting, take note of the cleanliness, the behavior of the staff, and the overall atmosphere. Ask questions vital questions to evaluate the services and care provided
4. Assess the Quality of Care
Evaluate whether the care homes provide the right services for your loved one’s needs. Some homes may offer personal care services such as help with dressing and bathing, while others might focus more on skilled nursing care. Make sure the home you choose offers the right care and services for your loved one.
Here’s a checklist to help you assess the quality of care in a private home for elderly care:
- Staff-to-Resident Ratio: Check how many caregivers are assigned to each resident to ensure personalized attention. For instance in Amy’s Eden, we only have 2 residents per home. So, our resident-to-staff ratio is 1:1.
- Caregiver Qualifications: Ask about the qualifications, certifications, and experience of the caregivers.
- Personalized Care Plans: Ensure the residential care home creates individualized care plans that address the specific needs of each resident.
- Medical Care and Support: Verify if there is access to on-site or nearby medical care, including doctors, nurses, and specialists.
- 24-Hour Supervision: Check if the home provides round-the-clock supervision for residents.
- Daily Care Assistance: Assess the level of assistance offered with daily activities like bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.
- Memory Care Support: For residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s, confirm the presence of specialized memory care services.
- Emotional and Social Support: Inquire about programs or recreational activities that promote emotional well-being and social interaction.
- Safety Features: Check for fall prevention measures, emergency call systems, and secure entrances/exits.
- Cleanliness and Hygiene: Observe the cleanliness of the home, including resident rooms, common areas, and bathrooms.
- Nutritional Support: Ask about meal preparation, dietary accommodations, and nutrition monitoring.
- Family Involvement: Determine if the home encourages regular communication and visitation from family members.
- Transparency of Costs: Ensure the home provides a clear breakdown of all costs, including any potential extra fees for additional services.
How to Get Started with Private Homes for Elderly Care
After selecting the right private home for elderly care for your loved one, it’s time to complete the application process and make the move. Taking the right steps to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible is essential.
Here’s a breakdown of the vital steps to get started with private care homes and tips for helping your loved one adjust to their new environment.
Steps to Apply
The application process for a private care home is typically straightforward but may require some preparation to ensure a smooth admission. Here’s how to get started:
- Initial Consultation: Contact the private care home for an initial consultation. This is your opportunity to ask questions, tour the facility, and learn more about the services offered. It’s also a chance to discuss your loved one’s specific needs and the level of care provided.
- Health Assessment: Before admission, most care homes require a health assessment to evaluate your loved one’s medical history, current health status, and any special care needs. This helps the home develop a personalized care plan that matches their requirements. Be prepared to provide:
- Medical records, including diagnoses, prescriptions, and treatment plans
- A list of daily care needs, such as assistance with bathing, dressing, or mobility
- Information about any memory care or dementia care needs, if applicable
- Legal and Financial Documentation: You will also need to submit legal documents such as power of attorney or guardianship papers, especially if you’ll be making decisions on behalf of your loved one. Additionally, many care homes ask for proof of income or financial documentation to confirm how the care costs will be covered.
- Care Plan Review: After the assessment, the care home will create a tailored care plan that outlines the specific care and personal care services your loved one will receive. It’s important to review this carefully to ensure that all their needs are addressed, including medical care, assistance with personal care, and emotional support.
- Sign the Agreement: Once all documents are in place and the care plan is confirmed, you’ll be asked to sign an admission agreement. This will outline the services provided, the cost of living, any additional fees, and the rules and regulations of the care home.
Understanding the Admission Process
The admission process is more than just moving your loved one into the care home. It’s a comprehensive process that helps both the resident and family understand how the home operates and what to expect in daily life.
- Orientation: Many private care homes offer an orientation or initial meeting with the family. During this session, you will be introduced to the staff, shown the layout of the home, and informed about important policies. It’s also a time to discuss the care plans in more detail, learn about the daily schedule, and get an overview of what the private care home offers in terms of social activities and personalized care.
- Understanding Care Services: The orientation will help you understand the care and services offered, including how assistance with personal care is provided. Make sure you ask about:
- Daily care routines: How will meals, medication, and personal care be handled?
- Staffing: Who will be the primary caregivers, and how are they trained to handle specific needs?
- Activities: What social, recreational, or therapy programs are available to keep residents engaged?
- Developing a Communication Plan: Before the transition, establish a clear communication plan with the care home staff. This includes scheduling regular updates, knowing how to reach staff members, and setting expectations for visiting hours and family involvement. A solid communication plan ensures you stay informed about your loved one’s well-being.
Transitioning Your Loved One
Take these steps to make your loved one feel at home during the transition. This will help ease the adjustment and provide a sense of comfort during this period of change.
Personalize Their Space
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to make a private or shared room feel more comfortable is by personalizing the space with familiar items. Bring cherished belongings such as family photos, favorite books, a familiar blanket, or artwork. This helps create a sense of continuity and belonging in their new surroundings.
Visit Regularly During the Transition
During the first few weeks after the move, regular visits from family members can make a huge difference. Frequent visits can help your loved one settle into their new environment and feel connected to familiar faces.
Encourage Engagement with Staff and Other Residents
Helping your loved one build relationships with caregivers and other residents will aid in their emotional adjustment. Encourage them to participate in social events or activities, even if it takes time for them to warm up to the idea.
Monitor Emotional and Physical Health
Adjusting to a new living environment can be stressful, and some seniors may experience anxiety or depression. If you notice any signs of emotional distress, communicate with the care staff to make sure additional support is provided.
Reassure and Be Patient
Offer constant reassurance to your loved one, letting them know that they are in a safe, supportive environment. Patience and understanding are key, as everyone adjusts to new routines and settings differently.
Conclusion
Private homes for elderly care are the next best thing to aging at home. They help older adults feel safe, comfortable and cared for in an environment that feels just like home.
At Amy’s Eden Senior Care, we operate upscale assisted living homes in Reno, Carson City, and surrounding areas. With only 2 residents per home, our caregivers give your loved one compassionate and personalized attention to help them thrive in their golden years.
Looking for a private home for your loved one in Nevada, contact us today to learn more about how we help.
