Your mom has been your biggest advocate for years, and you’ll never forget the sacrifices she made to give you the best life possible. You’re now committed to doing the same for her as she explores all her elder care options.
You’re not alone. Research shows that today’s 30,000 U.S. assisted living centers accommodate an average of between 27 and 33 residents, and another 4% of senior citizens reside in the nursing home setting. The demand for nursing home care and assisted living is expected to grow as an increasing number of senior citizens age.
How can you tell whether assisted living or nursing home is right for your loved one? Let’s explore the assisted living vs nursing home differences and how they may best meet your loved one’s needs long-term.
Assisted Living vs Nursing Home Differences
The chief difference between the assisted living and nursing home settings is the type of client each caters to. These two alternatives differ in terms of the level of assistance and medical services given, the living arrangement style, and the range of amenities available.
Assisted living communities offer a more sociable lifestyle for senior citizens who are physically active but require assistance with daily duties. Nursing homes offer long-term health care to adults with chronic health problems. A nursing home is typically more expensive than assisted living because it provides a higher level of care.
The U.S. government licenses nursing homes. Individual states regulate assisted living communities.
Assisted Living Benefits and Drawbacks
Individuals comparing senior housing for their loved ones may prefer assisted living if their aging family members value their independence. That’s because it is intended for people who don’t need around-the-clock care.
Care Level
Personal care at an assisted living center includes help with activities of daily living, such as walking, toileting, eating, dressing, and bathing. Care plans are tailored to individual requirements and are frequently evaluated to ensure appropriate care is provided when those needs change. Staff are ready to help with daily tasks while assuring well-being and safety.
High-level assisted living centers can also help address complex conditions, including dementia, a syndrome that affects a person’s social abilities, thinking, and memory. A quality program can provide a tranquil living environment to make it easier for your loved one to meet others and remain active. This may help them stay as confident and self-reliant as possible while navigating life with dementia.
Health Care Services
Assisted living centers can coordinate their clients’ medical care with healthcare providers. This is especially invaluable for individuals with a health issue requiring ongoing care.
Perhaps your aging loved one has diabetes. Quality assisted living can help your family member properly use a portable blood sugar meter regularly to check their blood glucose levels. The center’s team can also administer insulin doses if needed to prevent high blood glucose levels.
Approach to Independence
Assisted living communities are designed to foster independence in a friendly community. They typically feature semi-private or private living areas, frequently with kitchenettes. Residents are kept engaged through social events, recreational outings, and educational programs.
Popular amenities available in assisted living centers include local excursions, wellness classes, and game rooms. These activities are essential because residents may experience isolation and loneliness due to medical issues and physical restrictions. Entertainment events encourage social contact and connections with other residents, staff, and volunteers.
Entertainment also uplifts moods and improves emotional well-being. Happy experiences and regular laughter contribute to a higher quality of life. Reading books might help your loved one recall memories, relax, and reduce anxiety, too.
Expense
Costs vary based on the quality of care needed, room size, and location. Clients are usually charged monthly for accommodation, utilities, services, and meals.
Nursing Home Benefits and Details
Care Level
A nursing home provides 24-hour licensed nursing care for residents with impairments or chronic illnesses who need long-term support. Staff in the community can help monitor your loved one and manage any complicated health issues.
Health Care Services
Nursing home rehabilitation treatments may include speech, occupational, and physical therapy. Your loved one may benefit from access to specialist medical services, such as dialysis for those with kidney failure, IV therapy, and wound care. A reputable nursing home will coordinate with specialists and hospitals to provide complete health care.
Approach Independence
Nursing home residents can expect a structured setting with established routines for activities and care. Custom care plans might include help with activities of daily living, but this help may be more comprehensive than what’s provided in an assisted living community. Adaptive devices designed to improve accessibility and mobility, like wheelchairs, are present in nursing homes, too.
Expense
The higher prices associated with nursing homes reflect their demanding level of treatment and personnel needs. Medicaid, and insurance may provide coverage under some conditions. Out-of-pocket costs might be high without coverage.
Senior Living Differences: The Takeaway
Assisted living is ideal for seniors who are mainly self-sufficient but may benefit from some help. These centers accommodate those who don’t require intensive nursing and medical care. They might be the best option for your loved one if they prefer a community environment that allows for social contact.
Individuals with serious health concerns who require ongoing medical care are ideal candidates for nursing homes. A nursing home is also appropriate for those suffering from illnesses or surgeries who require rehabilitation treatment. Senior citizens with cognitive challenges can benefit from this community’s secure atmosphere, too.
How We Can Help With Elder Care
The core assisted living vs nursing home differences can help you determine the best living situation for your aging loved one. Assisted living offers support and independence, creating a community setting where individuals can receive assistance while maintaining autonomy. Nursing homes treat more serious health disorders requiring ongoing medical care and supervision.
SummerHouse Bay Cove offers a top-tier memory care and assisted living community in Biloxi, Mississippi. We stand out for our compassionate care and amenities, including live entertainment and a grand piano. Help your senior loved one live life to the fullest by partnering with us today!
