Later Life Considerations

As more and more of the U.S. and world population ages into old age, it is becoming increasingly critical that societies have a better understanding of what works well and what perhaps does not work so well when considering eldercare. What types of living situations ensure happier and healthier elders? What factors in eldercare may impact working adults and loved ones? What’s the effect of varied living situations on societies and economies as a whole? Finally, what does the way a family or society treat elders say about that family or society in terms of values and belief systems? As you consider these questions, further think about how building your understanding of eldercare might help you not only in your professional work but also how it might impact you on a personal level as well.

For this Discussion, you will explore the advantages and disadvantages of eldercare living.

To Prepare
Consider the following:

Imagine you are middle-aged and belong to a family where your children are late adolescents. You have two teenage children and two very elderly parents. In some cultures, it is common for elders to live in an independent living community, retirement community, or assisted living communities. In other cultures, elders will come live with an adult child.
Post and describe at least one advantage and one disadvantage of each living arrangement (i.e., independent living, assisted living, and living with an adult child).