GATEWAY HOUSE OF
Peace
WRITTEN BY BETHANY GONYEA | PHOTO PROVIDED
All of us live with the uncertainty of how our last days will unfold. We can plan for the inevitable, but life has a way of unwinding differently than we had hoped. People may find themselves at the end of life without the finances or family to care for their greatest needs. More people face such a crisis each day, as 10,000 boomers turn 65 each day, and all boomers will be over 65 by 2030. Comfort Care Homes, often renovated private homes with 24/7 nonmedical comfort-based supportive staff, have been slowly emerging to help individuals who need help in their final days. Comfort Care Homes are not hospice homes, although they carry a similar mission. Comfort Care Homes are often founded by an inspired community leader who arranges for a home with only two beds and a team of trained caregivers and volunteers. These services are provided free of charge or on a sliding scale to the families. Not only do comfort care homes offer a direct supportive level of care, but they also provide meals for residents, guests, and their families.
52 | SARATOGA FAMILY | WINTER 2021
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