Not many people are aware of the differences between assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The terms have been used interchangeably over the years, so the confusion is understandable.
But that confusion can lead to people making the wrong choices for the seniors in their lives. To prevent that from happening, here are the key differences between nursing homes and assisted living.
Independence
With assisted living facilities, residents can take care of themselves for the most part. They may need some assistance with certain tasks, such as doing the laundry or remembering to take medication, but otherwise, they’re living on the grounds on their own. The options from McKnight Place may help you to understand this better.
With a nursing home, on the other hand, residents require a higher level of daily care. Residents usually can’t feed, clothe, or bathe themselves and require nurses to do so for them. There is less independence, but there is more care around the clock.
Costs
Nursing homes do tend to be a bit more expensive because of the amount of daily care that has to be provided. This kind of care is also provided by medically licensed nurses, which can bump up the prices.
For an assisted living facility, the monthly costs are entirely dependent on the amount of care being requested. Residents choose what they need help with, which can change in the future. It’s a more adaptable way of living for those who are just no longer able to take care of themselves.
Privacy
With assisted living facilities, each resident is provided with their own apartment or condo for them to live in, with their own bathrooms and kitchens. If requested, couples can live together in the same apartment.
Nursing Homes are not so private. The arrangement is similar to a hospital, where there may be several beds together in one room so that the nurses can take care of each person individually.
Socialization
Assisted living care facilities are big on promoting socialization. There are events planned every day and transportation is provided to those who wish to leave the grounds and go shopping. Transportation is also provided to doctors appointments or to buy their own groceries.
Residents of a nursing home are treated much differently. They remain on the property for a majority of the time, unless they’re leaving with a family member or guardian, or they need medical assistance at a hospital. But there are activities that are arranged, such as movie night and fitness classes to help them stay physically and mentally fit.
Form of Payment
Assisted living facilities are considered custodial care, so payments are made out of pocket. They could be covered by certain benefits or long-term health insurance, with the right plan.
Nursing homes, however, require national and state licensing so they are usually covered under Medicare or Medicaid.
The choice is yours to make, but it’s important that you make the right one, whether it’s for yourself or for a senior in your life.
Wow.. This is good to know.. My dad is 81, and may be in need soon.. I loved getting to know the difference..
That is a good explanation. Some of the people who lived in our complex have moved to a couple assisted living places. They are happier, too, as often before they move it has become apparent they aren’t that good all alone. It can be a big decision, and one of the places requires a huge deposit up front.