What Is The Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Home Care?

How are assisted living and nursing homes similar?

Both types of senior care aim to keep residents safe, healthy, and comfortable. Here are some services you will find at both assisted living and nursing home care facilities.

• Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) – these include bathing, dressing and personal care. 
• Medication management – Sometimes older adults may miss a dose or take too much of their medication accidentally. 
• Life enrichment – seniors are at higher risk for isolation and loneliness. Assisted living communities and nursing home facilities offer a variety of life enrichment activities designed to keep residents engaged.
• Supportive services – these include tasks like housekeeping, laundry and transportation. 
• Safe environment –  Both environments are designed with the security of an older adult in mind and may include features such as handrails, grab bars, and emergency call systems.
• Meals and nutrition – Both communities focus on providing well-balanced meals to keep residents healthy. 

What are the differences between nursing homes and assisted living?

The biggest differences between these two senior living options are the assistive or medical services provided, living arrangements, and cost. 

Type of care:

In assisted living, residents essentially live independently, and receive care with some activities as needed. Those in a nursing home require around the clock care and monitoring. They typically live with more complex health care conditions that require medical assistance from a nurse or a physical or speech therapist. 

Living arrangements:

Assisted living communities are designed to feel homey and familiar. Residents typically live in their own apartments or suites with private baths and kitchenettes. On the other hand, nursing homes have more of a clinical environment and residents live in a private or semi private room that does not include a living room or kitchen. 

Cost:

Nursing homes tend to be more costly because of the more intense level of care provided.

Whether you choose assisted living or nursing home care for your loved one will depend on their medical situation and the level of support that they need day-to-day. If your loved one is able to live independently but may need occasional support, or maybe they just prefer living in a more community-oriented environment, Courtyard Manor can help. Call us to schedule a tour or to learn more about our programs and services.