Draper Allison Draper Alex Kurian Nursing May 2015

Draper 3allison Draperalex Kurianeng 13023 May 2015for Nursing Homesdo

The assignment prompt is to write an academic paper discussing whether elderly individuals need to enter assisted living facilities after a certain age, the role of family in these decisions, and the importance of financial considerations. The paper should argue whether nursing homes are beneficial due to their provision of continuous care, social opportunities, and cost-effectiveness.

Paper For Above instruction

As the global population ages, the question of appropriate living arrangements for the elderly becomes increasingly pertinent. Many seniors and their families grapple with decisions about transitioning into assisted living facilities or nursing homes. The core debate revolves around whether it is necessary for every elderly person to move into such facilities, the influence of familial input in these decisions, and the financial implications that accompany them. This paper argues in favor of nursing homes, emphasizing their advantages in providing continuous medical care, fostering social engagement, and being cost-effective options for long-term elderly care.

To understand the role of nursing homes, it is essential to consider demographic trends in the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, states such as Florida, Maine, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia have higher proportions of older adults, with over 15% of their populations aged 65 and above. The population aged 65+ has been on the rise, especially in the West and South regions, due to factors such as increased longevity and aging baby boomers (U.S. Census Bureau, 2014). As the elderly population grows, so does the demand for appropriate care facilities, highlighting the significance of nursing homes in modern healthcare infrastructure.

The aging process inherently entails heightened health risks, including chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, arthritis, and osteoporosis, which impair independence and necessitate specialized care. Diseases such as Alzheimer’s can lead to dangerous symptoms like hallucinations, overwhelming families and caregivers. Nursing homes offer around-the-clock supervision and professional assistance, ensuring immediate response to medical needs and safety concerns. Staffed with nurses and trained personnel, these facilities can assist with daily tasks—medication management, bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility—tasks that become increasingly challenging with age (Hawes & Phillips, 1986). This constant care not only ensures safety but also promotes health and well-being by preventing hazards that could lead to hospitalization or injury.

Moreover, one of the primary benefits of nursing homes is the alleviation of the caregiving burden on families. Caring for an elderly loved one often requires significant time and emotional investment, which might be incompatible with working schedules or personal obligations. Family caregivers can experience burnout and stress, reducing their capacity and willingness to provide quality care. Nursing homes serve as a reliable alternative, offering professional care that allows family members to maintain their own lives while knowing their loved ones are in capable hands (Yip, 2015). Trained staff in these facilities are committed to offering compassionate, continuous care, which is often challenging to maintain at home, especially for families with limited resources or support systems.

Beyond safety, nursing homes provide vital social and emotional benefits. Social isolation and loneliness are prevalent issues among the elderly, contributing to depression and decline in mental health (Meyer, 2010). Assisted living and nursing homes create communal environments where residents can interact with peers, participate in recreational activities, and engage in cultural and entertainment programs. For example, group outings to parks, museums, or theaters, and participation in organized activities like bingo, music performances, or exercise classes foster social bonds and mental stimulation (McQueen, 1993). Such interaction is crucial, as it mitigates feelings of loneliness, promotes psychological well-being, and improves overall quality of life.

Socialization within nursing homes parallels college dormitories for young adults, where residents share similar life stages and health challenges, facilitating camaraderie. It is akin to children playing and learning together; elderly residents benefit from being among peers experiencing similar life circumstances. For instance, participation in community events or recreational programs helps seniors feel more engaged and less isolated, which is especially vital for those with mobility issues or chronic illnesses. Activities like visiting guest speakers, attending cultural events, or even simple social gatherings can uplift residents’ spirits and foster a sense of belonging (Meyer, 2010).

When comparing living arrangements, it is evident that nursing homes offer distinct advantages over hospital care or in-home assistance, especially in terms of cost and comprehensive care. Hospital units equipped for long-term stay can cost upwards of $10,000 per day depending on the level of care needed (CBS News, 2012). In-home registered nurses, while providing personalized care, can be prohibitively expensive, with hourly rates ranging from $50 to $100, and annual costs reaching approximately $127,750 to $255,500 for full-time services (Guide to Nursing Homes, 2014). Conversely, the average annual cost of a nursing home residence in the U.S. is around $76,000 (Guide to Nursing Homes, 2014). This comparison underscores the financial practicality of nursing homes for most families, especially when long-term, continuous care is required.

Furthermore, government programs such as Medicare offer limited support for long-term elderly care at home but are primarily designed for short-term recovery from illness or injury. As Pamela Yip (2015) notes, Medicare does not sufficiently cover ongoing daily assistance for the chronically ill, making nursing homes a more viable option. Although some argue that aging in place at home with family may be preferable, the reality is that families often lack the time, resources, or expertise to provide constant care. The physical, emotional, and financial strain can lead to suboptimal care and increased stress for family caregivers.

Nevertheless, some critics oppose nursing homes, fearing they may create environments of unhappiness or social detachment. However, evidence indicates that well-designed nursing facilities foster community, friendship, and mental stimulation (Meyer, 2010). To enhance life quality, nursing homes should be improved through interior design modifications—such as appealing scenery or personal photos—and the implementation of diverse activities, including outdoor excursions and cultural events. Regular outings to zoos, parks, or theaters, along with indoor events like talent shows or arts and crafts, can prevent boredom and promote physical and mental health, ensuring residents’ needs and preferences are met. The goal is to create a nurturing environment where elders feel valued, engaged, and part of a community (McQueen, 1993).

In conclusion, considering the healthcare needs, socialization, and financial aspects, nursing homes emerge as a practical and beneficial arrangement for many elderly individuals. They provide continuous medical supervision, social opportunities that combat loneliness, and are relatively cost-effective compared to hospital stays and in-home care. Although the decision to move into a nursing facility can be complex and emotionally charged, the overall benefits—enhanced safety, social engagement, and peace of mind for both elders and their families—make nursing homes a compelling option. Future improvements in facility environment and activity programs can further enhance resident satisfaction and quality of life.

References

• CBS News. (2012). The Cost of Dying. Retrieved from https://www.cbsnews.com
• Guide to Nursing Homes. (2014). Stockstill Publishing.
• Hawes, C., & Phillips, C. (1986). The Changing Structure of the Nursing Home Industry and the Impact of Ownership on Quality, Cost, and Access. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
• McQueen, J. (1993). What should we do with mother? Vibrant Life, Jan-Feb, p.22+.
• Meyer, E. (2010). Why It’s Important That Seniors Have A Social Life. Walker Methodist.
• Yip, P. (2015). In The Right Hands. The Dallas Morning News, D01.
• U.S. Census Bureau. (2014). 65+ in the United States: 2013. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov
• Loos, R., & Blackwell, A. (2008). Nursing Homes. The Gale Encyclopedia of Nursing and Allied Health.
• Rowe, J. W., & Kahn, R. L. (2005). Successful Aging. Pantheon.
• Schiesel, S. (2008). O.K., Avatar, Work With Me. New York Times, G1(L).