ECHO (Elder Cottage Housing Opportunities)
A small, temporary home installed on the same site as a single-family residence, usually that of an adult child or other relative. ECHO units allow seniors to remain close to family members and receive the support they need while retaining a great deal of independence.
Home Health Care
Medical and nursing services are provided in a person’s home by a licensed provider.
Hospice Care
Care and comfort provided to those with a terminal illness and their families. It may include medical, counseling, and social services. Most hospice care is furnished in-home, while specialized hospices and some hospitals also provide such care.
Independent Living
A multi-unit senior housing development that may provide supportive services such as meals, housekeeping, social activities, and transportation. This alternative is available as part of Congregate Housing, Supportive Housing, and Retirement Communities. Independent Living encourages people to socialize by providing meals in a central dining area and through scheduled social programs. This term may also be used to describe housing with few or no services such as Senior Apartment.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)
Day-to-day tasks such as preparing meals, shopping, managing money, taking medication, and housekeeping.
Life Care Community
A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), which offers an insurance type of contract and provides all levels of care. It often includes payment for acute care and physician's visits. Little or no change is made in the monthly fee, regardless of the level of medical care required by the resident, except for cost-of-living increases.
Nursing Home
A facility licensed by the state that provides 24-hour nursing care, room and board, and activities for convalescent residents and those with chronic and/or long-term illnesses. The availability of regular medical supervision and rehabilitation therapy is required, and nursing homes are eligible to participate in the Medicaid program. This alternative may be referred to as a Nursing Facility or Convalescent Home.
Residential Care
See Assisted Living.
Respite Care
Temporary relief for caregivers, ranging from several hours to days. This may be provided in-home or in a residential care setting such as an assisted living facility or nursing home.
Senior Apartment
Age-restricted multiunit housing with self-contained living units for older adults who are able to care for themselves. Usually no additional services such as meals or transportation are provided.
