The Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

While some people use the terms assisted living facilities and nursing homes interchangeably, there are key differences between the two. This is particularly important in the wake of COVID-19, as many nursing homes have been negatively portrayed in the media but many assisted living facilities are completely safe with no cases and still accepting patients. How are the two facilities different?

The Similarities

First, there are some similarities between the two communities. Both assist with medication management to keep seniors healthy and offer various community activities that can help meet the emotional and spiritual needs of people who live there. Both are also typically secure environments that offer supportive services to make life easier, like transportation, on-site meals and housekeeping.

The Differences

The critical differences between the two are rooted in what healthcare and medical services they offer. Residents of a nursing home usually have more complex health conditions that require the observation of a therapist or nurse. Others need more advanced care, like respiratory care services. Nursing home residents need monitoring and care around the clock. However, in an assisted living community, residents typically require less care. Many residents need a little extra supervision or might be unsafe living alone due to memory loss, but they do not need 24/7 medical assistance.

Due to these differences, the layouts also differ between nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Nursing homes typically look more like hospitals because of the level of care that residents need. Nursing home residents are also much more likely to be placed in a room with another resident. However, assisted living facilities are more likely to resemble an apartment community or a nice senior living community. Residents have their own, more independent living space that often resembles a nice hotel suite or a traditional apartment. This separation helps to reduce the risk of virus or cold transmission throughout the year. As always, I am here to help you find the right home for your senior loved one.

Care for Your Senior Loved Ones in These Trying Times with Senior Care Lifestyles

Senior Care Lifestyles specializes in connecting seniors with the right in-home care, assisted living, or senior living community to meet their needs. We have helped hundreds of clients and treat each senior as a valued member of our own family deserving our personalized attention, compassion and respect.

For help, or questions please call us at 410-977-3718 or send a message through our website www.seniorcarelifestyles.com.