When an elderly loved one needs care, a nursing home may not always be the right answer. Adults in this age group already face multiple stresses and incidents that can trigger depression.  Losing friends, spouses, mobility and memory can be devastating.  However, packing up an entire home co consolidate into a much smaller space can be too much for some elderly individuals to bear.  Fortunately, there are several alternatives to nursing home care.
Community & In-Home Care
With home-based care growing in popularity, more companies and organizations are opening in every city. Some of the community care programs found in most cities include Meals on Wheels, adult daycare facilities and visiting services.

Assisted Living & Senior Living Communities
These facilities should not be confused with nursing homes. Some types of facilities may be hybrid assisted living homes.  There is usually a nurse on staff who distributes medications or tends to residents who need daily treatments.

Board & Care HomesThese are specialized homes for people who need assistance but do not need so much assistance they must live in a nursing home. These types of homes are not strictly monitored and Medicare or Medicaid are not  accepted forms of coverage.

Subsidized Senior Housing
Several state and federal programs exist for housing assistance for low-income elderly individuals. Facilities with subsidized housing usually feature full apartments. Residents are typically allowed a certain amount of food and any services they require.