When seniors begin to consider transitioning to senior living communities, the number of choices can be overwhelming. Each option provides unique services, from independent living to assisted living to nursing care. How can you tell which is suitable for your loved one? Before deciding, take the time to learn about each type of community and what they offer, especially since there are some critical differences between assisted living vs. nursing home communities that families and seniors should consider.
If you or a loved one is looking into senior living, call 214.227.7182 today to learn more about the range of services offered by our caring staff at Buckner Retirement Services. Our communities in Texas offer a continuum of care that supports your loved one as their needs change. From independent and senior assisted living options to skilled nursing and memory care, our staff is here to help.
What’s the Difference Between Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Communities?
There are some key differences between these two types of senior living options. In general, you can expect:
- Nursing home care – 24-hour health care services, including medication management, social and recreational activities, meals and snacks, and other medical needs.
- Assisted living communities – A wide range of supportive services that help seniors remain as independent as possible while providing assistance with daily tasks such as meal preparation, dressing or grooming, transportation, medication management, and more.
Nursing home care is typically provided for individuals who need a higher level of medical attention, such as those with serious injuries or chronic health conditions. Assisted living communities are most suitable for seniors who need some assistance with daily tasks but don’t require around-the-clock care.
Levels of Care: Nursing Home vs. Assisted Living
The level of care provided is one of the most essential factors in choosing a nursing home vs. assisted living. Assisted living communities support seniors who may be experiencing health challenges or limited mobility but can still carry out many everyday activities and don’t need around-the-clock care.
On the other hand, nursing homes provide a heightened level of care for seniors with serious health challenges or very limited mobility, as well as seniors who are recovering from a health scare, surgery, or other medical procedure. A nursing home is likely a better option if your loved one cannot perform daily activities alone or with minimal assistance.
Services Provided: Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home
One of the significant benefits of senior living is the daily service available to residents on-site. Trained staff is dedicated to providing support for day-to-day necessities, comfort, and convenience. Some services provided in assisted living overlap with those of nursing homes, such as assistance with:
- Cooking
- Bathing
- Everyday grooming
- Everyday chores
- Transportation
In addition to these services, residents at both nursing homes and assisted living facilities benefit from conveniences like home upkeep, security, and landscaping.
However, there are also significant differences between the services provided in assisted living vs. nursing home living. With assisted living, the staff is trained to help with everyday chores and maintenance but not necessarily to offer skilled medical services. For example, they generally do not assist with medication administration, dressing wounds, or physical therapy. On the other hand, residents in nursing homes receive medical services from trained professionals who can help with severe health challenges as well as rehabilitation.
Living Accommodations: Nursing Home vs. Assisted Living
By nature, living accommodations in assisted living vs. nursing homes will differ. The needs of residents are not the same, and staff requires different access to each resident to provide the level of care needed. For instance, residents in assisted living typically have slightly more flexibility when it comes to private rooms configured in a personalized way. Residents in nursing homes may have to make space for staff or medical equipment that is necessary on a day-to-day basis. However, living accommodations in both assisted living and nursing homes are designed to be as comfortable as possible and feel like home.
Cost: Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home
Costs for senior living vary greatly depending on individual needs, country area, community and staff quality, and other factors. However, as a rule of thumb, nursing homes will generally come with a higher cost than assisted living. This is because residents in nursing homes often require a higher level of care than those in assisted living communities.
Call Buckner Retirement to Find Your Retirement Community
Choosing between assisted living vs. nursing home living can be an overwhelming decision. However, the decision doesn’t have to be made alone. The resources and knowledge available at Buckner Retirement Services can help. We understand that each individual’s situation is unique, so we take the time to get to know your needs and preferences. We can provide tailored recommendations for the best possible senior living option. And we’ll be with you every step to ensure a smooth transition. Contact us today at 214.227.7182 to learn more about our senior living options at Buckner Retirement Services.