Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home

If it’s time to place your loved one in a nursing home or assisted living facility, you will need to know the difference between the two to make the best decision.  They are very different.

Nursing Homes

A nursing home is for residents who need round-the-clock care, but do not require a hospital stay, or are stepping down from a hospital.  They may have a chronic illness that needs constant attention from a nursing professional but they no longer need a physician’s care.  Or they may have mobility issues due to their advanced years.  No matter the need, they just aren’t candidates for a lengthy hospital stay but can’t go home and need more care than an assisted living program can provide. All nursing homes are subject to licensing and you should see the license posted near the front door or office.

Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities are more like home.  They consist of  living quarters and common spaces.  The living quarters can be completed with items and furniture from home to make the units more comfortable for the residents.  Some daily services are provided such as light housekeeping by the staff.

Meals and social activities are in common spaces.  The residents have lots of opportunities to get to know each other and to form new friendships within the facility.  It becomes their neighborhood.  They can play cards, watch television, read, or just visit with friends in the common areas.  While they may have been spending a large amount of time alone at home, they can now eat meals with others and engage in conversation, which is so important to their happiness.

Social activities are offered at most assisted living campuses so there is something fun for everyone.  And often these are off premises, with transportation provided, to change the scenery for the residents and to enrich their lives as seniors.