An elderly person wants to continue living alone but cannot take care of himself. What is the most appropriate suggestion from the practical nurse?

• A. Have the elderly person move in with family.
• B. PSW through CCAC or long-term care.
• C. Use daily home visits from a visiting nurse only.
• D. Refuse any assistance and monitor.

Answer: (B)

Maintaining safety and independence for someone who wants to live at home but cannot manage daily care relies on connecting them with formal, community-based supports that address daily living tasks and health monitoring. Referring the elderly person to personal support worker services through the Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) creates a coordinated in-home care plan. A PSW can assist with bathing, dressing, meal preparation, homemaking, transportation, and getting medications organized, while the nurse or care team oversees medical needs and coordinates any additional services. This approach lets the person stay at home with practical help, and the plan can be adjusted or expanded if care needs increase, including a move to long-term care if necessary.

Choosing to move in with family can feel like a solution, but it doesn’t automatically ensure access to professional support or preserve the elder’s autonomy and safety at home. Relying only on a visiting nurse handles medical tasks but may miss day-to-day activities and safety monitoring that are essential for someone living alone. Refusing assistance places the elder at risk.