Choosing the right living arrangement for yourself or your loved one as age advances is a big decision. Two of the bigger choices typically on the agenda are care homes and assisted living, but how do they compare to each other? Understanding what each is and what each has to offer can help in providing a more informed decision.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is designed for older adults who need a little help with daily living activities but also desire to remain independent. Residences such as Serenity Empire offer a blend of residential care and care services. Assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, meals, or medication is provided to the residents. Medical attention within assisted living is restricted to the provision of routine health needs.
Assisted living is less about the activity and recreation aspects of life, and more about the social activity. From classes to exercise through group outings and meals, all of which are designed in a manner intended to promote active social interaction. Services such as beauty salons available in assisted living communities on campus, libraries, and group-planned activity or social engagement can be enjoyed at some assisted living communities.
The typical occupant of a care home is likely someone who treasures independence but will appreciate an extra pair of hands with some everyday tasks. Assisted living is appropriate for individuals who do not require 24-hour medical treatment but can benefit from a helpful, organized environment.
What is a Care Home?
Care homes, however, are set up to provide more intense forms of care for patients with greater health requirements. Better referred to as nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities, care homes have staffing and equipment that can address acute medical issues or physical impairments that require monitoring at all times.
These units are operated by trained healthcare professionals, i.e., care workers and nurses, who administer medication, monitor one’s health status, and provide physical therapy assistance. They also provide personal care assistance, i.e., bathing, eating, and the requirement for movement assistance.
Care home residents are usually those who can no longer safely live independently or need constant medical attention. Severe dementia, chronic illness, or recovery from surgery usually guarantees a care home is the optimum method of caring for them.
Care Homes vs. Assisted Living
The main differences between care homes and assisted living are based on the level of care, staff, and expense.
Levels of Care
Assisted living prioritizes fostering independence with light assistance, while care homes focus on meeting complex medical and physical care requirements. If someone needs 24/7 medical attention or rehabilitation services, a care home is likely the better fit.
Staffing
Assisted living centers typically employ personal care aides and staff to be present to oversee and assist. Care homes, however, employ trained health workers and professional nurses who can care for more severe health conditions.
Costs
Due to the higher degree of attention and medical professionals, care homes are more expensive than assisted living. Both also differ depending on location, services, and amenities, so precise comparison must be made in an effort to reach a solution that meets both care needs and financial capabilities.
Which Option is Best for You or Your Loved One?
Assisted living or care home is determined by the individual’s care needs, medical conditions, and personal preference. Try asking for an assessment by a social worker or medical professional to see what is best for you.
To better assist you, there are many communities and websites that offer comparison tools for facilities, meeting care advisors, or estimating costs for your region.
