What is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes?

Many of us would love to stay independent in our own homes as long as possible while we age. It is often what we want for our senior loved ones as well. But when it becomes impossible for us or our loved ones to manage a household on our own, knowing the difference between a nursing home and assisted living will be a huge help in determining next steps. 

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How to Know Your Loved One Cannot Live Independently

Deciding if your loved one can no longer live on their own is a difficult decision, especially if they do not feel the same way. One way to know if your loved one requires assistance is checking on their activities of daily living, which are basic tasks performed during daily life. These include things like dressing, grooming, toileting, bathing, feeding oneself, and walking or moving around the home. If your loved one struggles with any of these tasks, or you generally do not feel they are safe alone in their home, it may be time to consider assisted living or a nursing home. 

What is the Difference Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home?

Assisted living facilities and nursing homes are terms that are often considered interchangeable but they have some key differences. Assisted living facilities are designed for those who cannot live on their own 24/7 but who do have some independence. For example, those in assisted living may be able to bathe and dress themselves, but need help buttoning shirts or tying shoes. They may have cognitive challenges that prevent them from living alone safely. Many assisted living facilities have a dementia ward specifically for patients with cognitive decline. Assisted living facilities often have a registered nurse or licensed practitioner nurse on staff along with many aides who can help residents as needed. 

Assisted living facilities want their residents to live a full life with as much independence as possible. Activities like crafts, game nights, exercise classes, and other social events are often held both on and off-site. They may also bring in outside experts for concerts or other presentations. Often they will also run trips so residents can shop, attend religious services, or visit places of interest nearby. 

Nursing homes provide more care to their residents. Residents in nursing homes often need monitoring for significant medical conditions that prevent them from functioning on their own. They often need help with most, if not all, activities of daily living. 

A nursing home is required to have a registered nurse on site for 8 straight hours at least 5 days per week. There are generally many LPNs as well to provide care such as administering medication or other treatments. Nursing homes can also have therapies such as physical, occupational or speech therapy. 

Nursing homes require a doctor’s recommendation for admittance, while assisted living facilities do not. Nursing homes also tend to be significantly more expensive than assisted living since the residents require more specialized care.

Before choosing an assisted living facility or nursing home for yourself or your loved ones, take time to do some research. Look into locations, costs, and what each facility offers. Take tours and meet the people and caregivers at each different place. It is a big decision, but there are plenty of resources to help you make the best one so you and your loved ones can get the care they need in the most comfortable place possible.