Seniors Need Care and Service Options |Lakeview Methodist Health Services

I think it is very important for our senior population to have a range of services and care, from in-home support to skilled nursing care.

The senior population can vary so very much. One person may just need the use of Meals on Wheels. Meals on Wheels can deliver a well-balanced meal, and also serve as a wellness check on the person that may live alone. Some seniors just want to stay independent as long as they can. They were brought up to be self-sufficient in the world.

I think that a Senior Center is a great place to gather for our seniors. They can be together having fellowship with each other. They can share a meal together, reminisce about raising families. Seniors are able to talk together about current problems.

Home health is a large thing now. The cost is lower than having to move right in to long term health care. You are able to stay in your own home longer and you have someone stop in to your home. They check with you on different issues. If you need rides to appointments, they have volunteers that can help with transportation.

Seniors who find they are no longer able to stay at home may first want to try assisted living. This way you still have most of your independence.

If that time in your life comes when your unable to take care of yourself at your home or assisted living, skilled care or a nursing home would be another option for a person. Here you can get total care if you need it. People are here 24/7 to help you with anything you can think of. That may be doctor appointments, going to church, or taking time to reminisce with family or friends. Just to have someone that will be there if you need anything large or small. Some people just feel safe knowing someone is close by if they do need help.

We are like family with everyone. We are there if they need help but we still want seniors to remain as independent as possible.

Mike Maday is a Care Manager at Lakeview Methodist Healthcare Center in Fairmont, Minnesota.