The Lifespan Alternative
^{a customized wellness program for people aging with a brain injury}

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Lifespan Alternative different from a nursing home?

We’re different. In a nursing home setting, people with a brain injury are particularly prone to loneliness and depression. Their schedules often amount to mundane tasks, or they may feel that they aren’t participating in a positive social role. In other cases, a person may withdraw from their peers because they feel different from the rest of the group.

We’re not a nursing home. The Lifespan Alternative is an opportunity to enjoy life again, with all the right supports for safety and healthy. Our specialized environment consists of medical and therapeutic brain injury professionals. Together, we’re able to nurture positive growth, empowering individuals to enjoy greater health, independence and to continue their life with dignity.

Can a person with brain injury still achieve their goals as they age?

If you think that an older person with a brain injury can’t make improvements in their life, think again. Research demonstrates that such a person can make gains at any age in their life. At The Lifespan Alternative, we believe that with the proper environment of care, a person can achieve satisfaction and fulfillment that addresses their physical, social, and emotional needs.

Nursing homes are not equipped to meet the special needs of those with a brain injury, nor do they understand the complex medical and social issues involved in caring for someone with a brain injury. In The Lifespan Alternative, living areas are designed specifically for a person with a brain injury. Wide doorways, visual supports, and orthotic aids combine to create a comfortable, safe, and healthy environment.

Whilea member of The Lifespan Alternative, a person can receive different kinds of specialized care, such as medical management by doctors familiar with brain injury, therapies focused on gaining or maintaining certain skill sets to support cognitive health, and aid by trained technicians who understand the particular needs of a person witha brain injury so that the individual remains safe and feels supported.

How do I know if my loved one is right for The Lifespan Alternative?

The Lifespan Alternative is designed specifically for persons over the age of fifty who have experienced a moderate to severe brain injury. We’re ready to provide the right treatment today, and we’re prepared to offer different services for tomorrow’s needs. If your loved one currently requires the support of an assistant, or requires an even greater level of attention, then we encourage you to contact us to discuss their needs, and how we can help.

Upon review of your loved one’s medical records, we invite you to schedule an in-person evaluation by one of our brain injury clinical evaluators. They’ll be happy to discuss the special benefits of our program as it relates to the needs of your loved one.

Why do those with brain injury need a different type of care?

Research has demonstrated an uncomfortable truth about brain injury: it is disease causative and disease accelerative. This means that people who sustain a brain injury are more prone to health complications as they age with their injury. This doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy life—it just means they require a supportive environment that meets their special needs.

While the realities of the injury can’t be changed, we can maximize a person’s level of satisfaction and fulfillment, allowing them to age with the dignity and grace they deserve. The Lifespan Alternative provides all the comforts of home backed by a sophisticated program that encourages greater health and wellness—in short, a life of meaning and happiness.

How can I afford The Lifespan Alternative?

Brain injury is one of the most complicated health challenges a person can face. Consequently, it requires more resources than other types of health-related issues. The Lifespan Alternative is typically not covered by insurance providers, state, or federal funding. Through existing supports like trust funds, annuities, and worker’s compensation reimbursements, we’re able to recommend the right program to suit your loved ones needs, and maximize their benefit in the program.

What types of accomodations are available?

Members of The Lifespan Alternative enjoy private apartments with shared dining areas. With broad doorways, outside ramps, and many other amenities, each apartment is specially designed to suit the needs of individuals with a disability.