How Are Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Different?
Explore Options In Senior Care.
When it comes time to look into different types of senior living communities, you’ll want to become familiar with all the senior care options available in order to find the ideal fit for you and your loved one. The goal is to learn about each individual community and everything it has to offer – while also considering the unique needs of your loved one and your family.
Determining The Best Fit For Your Loved One.
The Reserve at Fairhope is a resource and a partner for families looking for senior care on the Eastern Shore – we hope this information helps you in making decisions for the future.
About Assisted Living
Assisted living describes a type of residential community for seniors providing living quarters, support services and health care designed for those who need some level of support with their day-to-day routines. Usually, these services include a combination of meals, laundry, housekeeping, medication management and assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting and mobility as needed. Residents in assisted living communities generally have their own apartment with access to community spaces for dining and activities.
About Nursing Homes
A nursing home provides around-the-clock skilled care for individuals who need assistance for most or all Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Generally, this category of residential care for seniors is considered to be one step below hospital acute care. Because residents of nursing home communities typically have high care needs and complex medical conditions, these communities offer medical care by trained medical staff, such as a registered nurse or therapist, 24 hours a day. Life-enriching activities are usually included, along with meals for various dietary needs.
Compare & Contrast
- Seniors in assisted living generally have a higher level of independence requiring less specialized care, while residents of nursing homes typically have high care needs that require 24-hour medical assistance.
- Residents of assisted living typically live in private apartments offering kitchenettes and other features, while residents of nursing homes may share a room and have less privacy due to the high level of medical attention needed.
- Though life-enriching activities are usually provided in both nursing homes and assisted living, assisted living may have a greater variety of options for dining and programming as compared to nursing homes.
- The quality, services and costs of both skilled nursing care and assisted living can vary greatly so families should be sure to research different communities and consider what is included at each.
At The Reserve at Fairhope, our levels of living are tailored to the needs of our residents – so you’ll find a specialized, supportive environment whether in assisted living or memory care. Contact us to learn more.