So Dad’s having problems. He raised a family, worked, spent some retirement time fishing, doing some traveling and meeting the guys for coffee. And somewhere during that time, he somehow got older. Aches and pains increased and he’s been diagnosed with things he didn’t know existed – not to mention prescriptions he can’t even pronounce. And also somewhere along the line, his life began to change. Dad gets out less and less and depends more and more on others helping him get through the day.

During those years, Dad was pretty much independent and made his own way, thank you. And just because the kids are grown and on their own, and just because he’s at a place where he isn’t sure if being home alone is a safe idea, he is still Dad. His decision now is just based on a different set of circumstances. And decide he will.

One of his old coffee guys has been living away from home for a while, and seems to being doing okay and like Dad, was adamant that he was not going to one of “those institutions.” He’s living in someone’s house with a few other folks – called an adult family home in our circles. Might be something to look into.

Adult Family Homes (AFH) are great resources, and are just what the name implies – family homes for adults. (Sometimes our labels are reasonably descriptive!) Generally, an AFH is a home designed for no more than six residents, plus the owners/operators. They tend to have less a facility feel to them, and are often like living in an extended family situation. Being smaller than other residences, they are often less overwhelming if Dad should decide to move in. And if Dad doesn’t mind sharing a bedroom, things could work out well for him. Assistance is available according to his need (within limits) and nursing services (nurse delegation services) are available on a visitation basis.

Meal times, outtings or just hanging out around the TV or living room offer opportunities for conversation, in addition to that confidence that comes from just knowing others are around.

As to the financial end, our local AFH’s listed below accept both state paid and private-pay options, but call the place first to get a general idea of how all that plays out. As with any change, information is the key.

And who are these AFH folks? Neighbors. In south Pacific County, they are:

R.E.A.L.: Lani Grabast, manager

642-5205, 16003 Sandridge Road

Circle of Life: Janet Lindsley, manager

642-3026, 10512 Pacific Way

Jo Heasley’s: Jo Heasley, manager

642-3727, 1736 Hwy 101, Ilwaco

Give them a call. It may be just what you’re looking for.

Senior Information & AssistanceLong Beach: 642-3634 or 888-571-6558

Raymond: 942-2177 or 888-571-6557

Web site: www.o3a.org