Assisted living communities and nursing homes both provide important support for people with different needs. When deciding between the two options, it’s natural to feel uncertain about which option is best for your loved one. Fortunately, you’re not alone — we’re here to guide you every step of the way
In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about assisted living and nursing homes to help you choose the right support for your family member’s unique situation.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is often a great option for individuals who need help with daily activities but don’t require constant medical supervision or monitoring. Residents usually live in comfortable, residential-style apartments with convenient access to amenities like libraries, beauty salons, fitness centers, and transportation services.
Along with support for daily tasks, residents enjoy freshly prepared meals and snacks. Many communities also offer a wide range of fun activities and social events.
Common Services in Assisted Living
Assisted living communities offer a safe, comfortable, home-like environment where your loved one can keep their own routine while receiving the support they need. Although amenities and services may vary from one community to another, there are several common services you can typically expect, including:
- Assistance with personal hygiene
- Medication management
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Transportation and mobility assistance
- Social and recreational activities
- Health and wellness programs
Who Benefits the Most From Assisted Living?
When deciding between assisted living and a nursing home for your family member, it’s important to carefully consider their needs and preferences. Assisted living offers various services to support residents, but it may not be the right fit for everyone.
Your loved one may benefit most from assisted living if:
- They Don’t Require Extensive Medical Support: Assisted living is ideal for seniors who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), but don’t need ongoing medical treatment. While some communities may partner with external health care providers to offer medical assistance, they’re usually less extensive compared to those in nursing homes.
- They Are Mostly Independent: If your loved one can manage most activities on their own, but still needs help with specific tasks like bathing or medication management, assisted living can provide the perfect balance between independence and support.
- They Want to Maintain Independence: Many seniors prefer to keep as much independence as possible. Assisted living allows your loved one to have their own living space and make decisions about their daily routine while receiving assistance with the tasks they find challenging.
What Is a Nursing Home?
Nursing homes are a good option for people who have intensive medical needs and close monitoring, such as those recovering from an injury, surgery, or managing a long-term illness. They typically have certified medical professionals on-site, including registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners, and licensed practical nurses (LPNs), to provide specialized care. While they do offer help with daily activities, their main focus is on meeting residents’ medical needs.
Types of Services in a Nursing Home
While the services in nursing homes can vary from one community to another, there are some common services you can typically expect, including:
- Access to 24/7 medical assistance
- Help with personal hygiene
- Management of chronic conditions
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Wound care
- Rehabilitation services
Who Benefits the Most From a Nursing Home?
Nursing home communities are designed for individuals with complex health conditions that require intensive medical assistance. In most cases, the decision between an assisted living community or a nursing home depends on your loved one’s specific needs.
A nursing home might be the right option for your family member if:
- They Need Intensive Medical Assistance: Nursing homes can provide round-the-clock medical assistance for residents with complex health needs, such as people with severe respiratory issues.
- They Have a Chronic Health Condition: Most nursing homes are well equipped to safely and effectively support residents in managing long-term health conditions like heart disease or diabetes.
- They Are Recovering From Surgery or a Major Illness: Nursing home communities often provide rehabilitation services to help individuals regain strength after surgery or a major illness.
Key Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
When exploring living options, many families often wonder: Is an assisted living community or a nursing home right for my loved one? While assisted living communities and nursing homes may share some key similarities, there are some big differences worth noting, including:
- Level of Medical Support: One main difference between assisted living and nursing homes is the level of medical support. While assisted living communities offer skilled nursing services, they don’t provide the higher level of medical assistance that nursing homes do.
- Living Arrangements and Amenities: Another key difference between assisted living and nursing homes is the type of housing and accommodations. In assisted living communities, residents usually live in private apartments with convenient access to amenities. Some communities even offer different housing options and floor plans to suit various needs and preferences. Nursing homes, on the other hand, focus more on providing medical support services and may not offer the same amenities or flexible living arrangements as assisted living communities.
- Cost: Residents in nursing homes often have complex health needs that require more intensive medical assistance. Because of this higher level of support, nursing home costs may be higher than assisted living communities.
- Activities and Programs: Most assisted living communities offer engaging activities, social events, and outings for residents to enjoy. Many residents in nursing homes require ongoing medical assistance, so these communities typically don’t offer as many recreational activities or social programs as assisted living communities.
Comparing the Cost of Assisted Living vs. Nursing Homes
When deciding between a nursing home or an assisted living community for a loved one, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved. On average, assisted living costs about $4,500 per month, though this can vary depending on the location and the level of assistance required. Nursing homes, on the other hand, are more expensive, averaging around $7,900 per month for a shared apartment.
These costs can vary significantly based on several factors. It’s always a good idea to research and tour a few communities and nursing homes to get a clear picture of the costs involved and ask questions you might have about your loved one’s support.
Check What Assisted Living Costs Near You
As you search for the right living option for your loved one, budget is likely an important consideration. Our cost calculator tool is here to help you estimate the costs of different senior living options in your area, including assisted living.
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Senior Living Compared To Staying In Place
We created this senior living calculator to help you determine the costs of senior living compared to remaining in place.
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To accurately estimate the cost of senior living, simply enter your monthly expenses in the field below.
To see an estimate of the cost of senior living, simply select the state and level of care you think is right for you or your loved one.
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(The National Average Cost Is $3,360-5,760 Monthly*)
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*This information is intended to aid in the evaluation and the decision-making process related to senior living alternatives. It is based on information and assumptions provided by you and information compiled from multiple accredited sources for comparison purposes. The calculations and comparisons provided should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice. In addition, such information should not be relied upon as the only source of information.
Factors to Consider When Making a Decision
Making a decision about your parent’s care can feel overwhelming. You naturally want what’s best for them, and it’s normal to feel unsure if a community will truly be a good fit.
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a senior living community for your loved one:
- Health Needs: The first thing to think about is your parent’s health needs. It might help to talk with their doctor to learn if they have medical conditions that require ongoing care or specialized attention. The community you choose should provide a safe and supportive environment that meets your family member’s health needs.
- Lifestyle Preferences: Your loved one’s lifestyle is another important consideration. Their hobbies, interests, and daily routines should be taken into account. Look for communities that can support these activities and allow your family member to continue doing what they love.
- Budget and Cost: Cost is often a big factor for many families when considering senior living options. When considering a community, be sure to ask about the various support services offered, along with their costs, and find out if they have any hidden fees or additional charges.
- Location: The location of the community can play a big role in your decision. It can be helpful to choose a place your family can visit regularly, which can help both you and your loved one feel more comfortable with the transition.
- Community Atmosphere: Finally, take the time to visit the communities you’re considering. Pay attention to how friendly and caring the employees are, and check if the environment is clean, comfortable, and welcoming. A warm, supportive atmosphere can make all the difference in your loved one’s experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain when choosing between assisted living and a nursing home. Thankfully, you’re not alone in navigating this emotional journey. Many families have similar questions as they explore assisted living and nursing home options. To help guide you through this process, here are some frequently asked questions about these two types of support services:
Let StoryPoint Group Be Your Guide
At StoryPoint Group communities, we understand the unique challenges you face when supporting your loved one — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you think a family member could benefit from assisted living or other senior living services, we’re here to help you through the process. Contact us or give us a call today at 1-844-275-9990. We look forward to getting to know you!
