[Polar Bear]

Since TV is what it is, it might be easy to assume everybody here knows all the answers to all the aging questions. Well...heheh...I don't. And I need to know more than I know now.

My in-laws are in their late eighties. They're both doing very well, for their age of course. But naturally they can't quite keep up with things like they could. House and yard care for example. They are also becoming more prone to falls, take medications, and are dealing with most of the issues you would expect. Only one drives and he probably shouldn't be and won't be for much longer. Here are my main questions...

They want to stay in their house as long as possible. I understand and sympathize. And they may even be able to for a while yet. But if it becomes apparent that they simply cannot fully take care of themselves independently any more, what are the options? I know there nursing homes and assisted living facilities. A nursing home is not necessary yet. An ALF may be more than they need at this point also. Are there other "levels" of care facilities besides just these two?

Also, I know many things about staying in a house can be contracted...yard care, housecleaning, etc. But that still leaves issues like transportation, possible occasional medical needs, etc. So my next question is...are there options for them staying at home that I may not be aware of?

Again, they are not helpless, just approaching the place in life where considerable support is becoming more and more necessary. Possible ways to provide that support and still stay in their home? Facilities that might provide some level of care a bit short of ALFs?

Those are my questions. Thanks in advance.