Elderly Care in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County offers a vast number of resources and programs for the elderly. Along with the community-based services available through the Department of Aging, and programs offered through Los Angeles County Services for the Elderly, those needing elderly care in Los Angeles can find help in their search for specialized facilities to meet their needs.
Department of Aging
The Los Angeles Department of Aging offers community-based services to the elderly and their caregivers. These services are designed to provide quality of life for both and include in-home assistance and care management. Along with that you can find help with:
- Legal assistance
- Nutrition services
- Home delivered meals
- Transportation (CityRide)
- Paratransit
- Health education and screening services
Los Angeles County Services for the Elderly
Los Angeles County also offers Community and Senior Services (CSS). Services are numerous and cover a wide range of needs. Among their supportive services programs they offer help with things like:
- Abuse claims
- Nutrition services
- Mediation services
- Family caregiver support
- Long-term care ombudsman
- Legal assistance
A complete list of services and detailed information can be found at their website.
Types of Care for the Elderly in Los Angeles
The senior population in Los Angeles is on the rise along with the need for elderly care. As you or a loved one approach the need for elder care, it is best to start doing your research early. Seek out a professional assessment to determine senior care needs for the long-term. From there you can choose from the types of care available to meet your needs.
In-home Care
In home care is a popular choice but requires a caregiver in the home. This role is often taken on by a family member, but many hire a professional licensed caregiver to provide this service. Services can be procured through a number of companies in the Los Angeles area. Before choosing a company, see what others who have used the service have to say and seek a referral from your doctor or other professional.
Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing Care
Assisted living communities and skilled nursing care provide elderly care outside the home. In these facilities, according California Health and Safety Code, all licensees, adult residents, and even some volunteers have to undergo a background check.
Assisted living sets up an environment where residents can maintain a level of independence, while enjoying a measure of privacy in a community setting where they can enjoy social interaction while getting the assistance they need. While assisted living facilities can provide assistance with day-to-day tasks from housekeeping to bathing or meal preparation, many of them are not authorized to provide skilled medical care. If your loved one requires this extra measure of care, nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities can provide the whole package.
Another difference between assisted living and skilled nursing care facilities is that most assisted living facilities are not covered by insurance or Medicare. That means paying for assisted living most often comes out of private funds. If your loved one does need skilled nursing care, it is also important to note that nursing homes have to be Medicaid-certified in order to qualify for assistance from Medicaid.
- Elder Care in Los Angeles
Once you have a clear understanding of the reality of the needs and level of assistance needed, you can choose one of three types of elder care. - Memory Care in Los Angeles
It's a stressful experience watching your loved one slip away mentally. Finding the right care will provide quality of life for them, and peace of mind for you. - Assisted Living Options in Los Angeles
Finding the right assisted living home or care facility takes time and research, so get started.
Finding Care in Los Angeles
If you don't know where to start in your search for elderly care in Los Angeles, talk with your healthcare provider or an elder law attorney. Along with those resources, there are other tools to help you find senior care in California. Take advantage of these resources to help limit the necessary legwork and to narrow the list of possibilities. It's an important decision and it's worth the time to find the right care.