Levels of services and supports

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It’s hard to think about what care we might need as we grow older. However, planning ahead and knowing your options is much better than not being prepared in a crisis.

Understanding how much care you may need

The types and locations of services depend on two basic factors—how much you need and what you need help to do.

Options for long-term services and support settings

There are several options for long-term services and supports in Oregon. Those who need a little help may be able to get it in their homes. Others who need more help may choose settings such as adult foster homes, assisted living, residential care, memory care and nursing facilities.

Deciding the best option for you or your loved one depends on the level of help needed. The following questions may help you decide the best option.

Minimal assistance to stay in your home

• Can you walk without assistance and without falling?
• Do you sometimes need reminders to bathe, dress, groom, take medications or keep doctors' appointments?
• Do you need help to prepare meals and do housework?
• Do you have some trouble remembering things?
• In case of an emergency, would you need help?

Answering “yes” to any of these questions may mean the services you need could be provided in your home. For instance, you may only need home care services, personal assistance or home-delivered meals.

Significant assistance to stay in your home or a licensed facility

• Do you need regular reminders to get dressed, groom yourself, eat, take medications, etc.?
• Are you sometimes incontinent?
• Do you need help to set up your bath?
• Do you need help preparing meals and doing household chores?
• Do you need reminders to do social things?
• Do you sometimes have problems remembering things? Are you sometimes confused?
• In case of an emergency, would you need help?

Answering “yes” to most of these questions means you could get services in your home and community. Family, friends or personal care attendants could provide services in your home. Depending on the level of need you may also consider a licensed facility.

Maximum assistance to stay in your home or a licensed facility

• Do you need help to move from your bed to a wheelchair?
• Do you require help to bathe, dress, groom and take medications?
• Do you need reminders and/or help to eat?
• Do you need encouragement to be in social activities or one-on-one visits?
• Do you need someone to help you in social activities or one-on-one visits?
• Do you require incontinence supplies and help using them?
• Do you need 24-hour help?
• Do you require services such as skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy?
• In case of an emergency, would you need help?

Answering “yes” to most of these questions may mean you could get the care in your home. However, depending on the level of need you may also want to consider a licensed facility.