Unfortunately there is no hard and fast set of rules when it comes to deciding between remaining at home with home care services versus making a move to a residence which provides supportive and care services. There are numerous factors to consider - your aunt's health status, safety concerns, socialization, personal preferences, financial resources and her support network of family and friends. The availability of suitable home care services or residences, which varies from one community to the next, is also important.

Given that your aunt is reasonably healthy and independent, perhaps home care is a viable option, and seeking out community-based social and recreational opportunities will help to get your aunt out and involved moreso than the current situation. Depending on her interests, local community centres, seniors' clubs, libraries, churches or seniors' residences provide a variety of activities and day programs she may want to consider. One of the major advantages of a seniors' residence, aside from the immediate availability of care and supportive services, is the fact that most offer a rich and diverse social and recreational program, and one is able to meet many new friends. This alone may be enough of a reason for you and your aunt to consider moving to such a residence.

As it relates to your aunts health status, which may change during the coming years, there are few things to watch for which may necessitate the move to a seniors' residence. For example:

• she may become at risk of wandering
• an unexplained loss could be an indication that she is having difficulty preparing balanced, nutritious meals and her diet is suffering as a result
• blackened pots or other visible damage to the home may indicate that she is no longer able to safely live independently
• bruises or other signs of trauma may indicate that she is having difficulty safely navigating around the house or falling