While many people tend to group assisted living communities and nursing homes together as a single category of senior care, they have, in fact, evolved over the years into two distinct options. The term “nursing home” is no longer a universal term for all senior care facilities. The main distinction between the two lies in the level of care provided: assisted living communities cater to seniors who are largely active but require assistance with daily activities, while nursing homes provide comprehensive medical care for adults with serious health conditions. Consequently, the cost of nursing homes is typically higher than that of assisted living due to the more intensive level of care provided.
Defining Assisted Living
Assisted living is a suitable choice for seniors who find it difficult to live alone but still wish to maintain a degree of independence and an active social life. These communities offer long-term accommodation for older adults who are mostly active but require support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and medication management.
Moreover, assisted living encourages a strong community spirit. Some religious assisted living communities, like Presbyterian assisted living, even offer a vibrant faith community. Residents can enjoy privacy in their apartments, but they usually share meals in the dining room and socialize in cozy common areas. Staff members usually organize a variety of activities, entertainment, and outings for residents throughout the month.
Understanding Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are designed for seniors and others who require constant monitoring and medical assistance. These facilities provide the highest level of care for individuals who do not need to be hospitalized.
Elderly adults who require long-term care at a nursing home often have severe physical or cognitive health conditions that necessitate 24-hour nursing care. They may be incontinent, unable to eat independently, or unable to transfer from bed to a wheelchair without assistance from staff.
Comparing Services in Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
Assisted living communities offer a variety of services and amenities to keep residents healthy, socially engaged, and as independent as possible. While nursing homes also focus on these areas and offer similar amenities, they provide continuous medical care to address more serious health issues.
Skilled nursing care is a fundamental feature of many nursing homes, meaning trained medical professionals are always available to assist residents. If your family member has a serious medical condition, they likely need specialized care from licensed health care professionals at a skilled nursing facility. Although assisted living senior care aides are highly trained, they may not hold medical certifications.
Services and amenities in assisted living may include:
– Dining options and social hours
– Transportation and excursions
– Social activities based on residents’ interests
– Laundry, housekeeping, and maintenance
– Assistance with ADLs (personal care) and medication management
– Apartments with mini-kitchens and bathrooms
Services in nursing homes may include:
– Continuous palliative and preventative long-term care
– Administration of prescription medication, including injections
– Specialized rehabilitative services, such as speech, occupational, physical, respiratory, cognitive, and vocational therapy
– Emergency and routine dental services
– Meal options that meet daily nutritional requirements and cater to the unique dietary needs of each resident, including pureed and liquid diets
– Enhanced safety features and security benefits
Often, these services are provided at the community by external companies contracted by the nursing home. For example, it is unlikely the facility will have a dentist or dialysis provider on-site all the time — those providers are brought in as needed. When that is not possible, the nursing home will likely offer transportation to the necessary locations.
Deciding Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home
Assisted living communities are suitable for seniors who are mostly active but require assistance with daily tasks. If an elderly loved one develops chronic or severe health problems, then nursing homes may be a more appropriate option. The advanced level of care offered in a nursing home, as opposed to an assisted living community, makes it an ideal choice by providing medical care in addition to companionship, help with ADLs, and on-site amenities.
Assisted living may be suitable for someone who:
– Requires some nursing assistance but does not need continuous medical care
– Needs help with daily activities like dressing and bathing
– Desires a maintenance-free lifestyle without the responsibility of lawn care or home repairs
– Desires an active lifestyle but lacks access to transportation
– Is seeking new friends or social activities
– Is currently in good health but anticipates needing more help soon
A nursing home is an ideal choice for seniors who may:
– Require continuous care due to chronic conditions or deteriorating health
– Be unable to feed themselves independently
– Have significant mobility concerns
– Have experienced an injury or fall and need extensive rehabilitation
– Have progressive conditions, like Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
– Require regular injections for diabetes or other conditions
Conclusion
It is crucial to understand the differences between assisted living communities and nursing homes to make the best decision for your loved one. Assessing their current health status, level of independence, and social needs will guide you in choosing the most appropriate option. Whether it is the community feel and support of assisted living or the specialized medical care of a nursing home, both options serve distinct purposes to cater to the varied needs of seniors.