Senior home care services aren't for everyone. Depending on the individual's health, the family or whatever unique situation, it can be impractical for a senior to remain home bound. So, what do you do? There are a lot of different senior care services to choose from. Make sure you know exactly what senior care services your loved one will get before you admit them.

The type of senior care facility you'll need largely depends on if the senior care center is a temporary or permanent service, what level of independence is possible for patients, and the amount of care your loved ones need. Below are a few options for those who need more than what senior home care services can provide.

Senior Independent Living Apartments

This is for those who do not have serious health issues. Independent living apartments offer a place for senior citizens over 55 to live comfortably and in style in a complex or community of other senior citizens. Some have services like food preparation, transportation and housekeeping. It's a good option for those who are still healthy enough to get around and be independent but want the convenience that comes with senior independent living centers. More senior independent living centers have developed addition senior care services like nursing and assisted living as they age.

Senior Living Apartments

The difference between this and the former paragraph is the word "independent." Senior Living Apartments have more safety features and amenities for those people who can't act independently anymore. For those considering home health care services, this might be a better option if staying at home is not a complete necessity. Senior care services in senior living apartments include: assisted living and nursing care, pools and spas, dinning services, clubhouse, social activities, laundry, grab bars in bathroom areas, pull cords, security and more.

Assisted Living Facilities

If your loved one needs help with day-to-day activities, this might be an option for you, especially if you're considering non-medical senior in home care. Assisted living care provides long-term care for seniors that do not require the medical senior services that are provided in a nursing facility. Assisted living facilities provide meals, structured activities, living space, companionship, personal care, medication reminders, and assistance that's associated with daily living. Assisted Living Facilities are designed to give seniors a safe and secure environment while allowing them to maintain the maximum level of independence.

The costs of assisted living facilities are usually covered by long term health insurance plans and Medicaid. It's not covered by Medicare and most health insurance plans.

Nursing Home and Skilled Nursing Facility Care

If you need skilled nursing services around the clock, this may be a good alternative to home health care and in home senior care services. A nursing home, or skilled nursing facility, is a place where someone with an illness, injury, disease or condition can go for care. Skilled nursing facilities are usually the last choice for long-term senior care services, but, they are less expensive than hospitals. The services provided by a nursing home include: physical and speech therapy, skilled nursing and assistance with daily living. It's usually covered by Medicare for the first 100 days if the person comes directly from the hospital. Medicaid coverage will vary by state and long-term insurance policies will likely cover some portion of it.