Assisted Living vs Nursing Centers: Which Is Right For You?

There may come a time in your life when you, or a loved one, move away from home to address increased care needs. It’s a big decision, and a change in lifestyle that may initially cause stress.

The biggest stressor is the notion that moving away from home means you’re losing your independence. While that feeling is understandable, we want to assure you that it’s not necessarily true. There are ways to continue to be independent — and to feel like you — while receiving the support you need.

Here, let’s break down the two primary types of care communities — assisted living centers and nursing centers — and the various features and benefits that each offer.

Assisted living communities offer safe, long-term care settings for residents in fairly good health who may require assistance with one or more activities of daily living (ADL), such as managing medications, preparing food, using the bathroom, or other needs.  

Here, nursing care may be available when needed, but it’s generally not provided around the clock. 

Assisted living communities also provide housekeeping, laundry service, exercise and wellness programs, restaurant-style dining, and a range of amenities and services. Typically, they also will have an on-site health clinic or provide transportation to and from medical appointments.  

Who Can Benefit Most from an Assisted Living Center? 

In general, assisted living communities are best for those in good health who want to maintain an active, independent lifestyle in an apartment-like complex that brings them close to friends and social activities. 

Nursing centers — also called skilled nursing facilities — provide 24/7 care for people who need more intensive care and attention. Nursing centers provide rehab services, such as physical or occupational therapy, in addition to general nursing care. 

Unlike the apartment-like appearance of assisted living communities, nursing centers tend to look a little more like hospitals. Here, you’ll have a bed and perhaps a private room, but you don’t bring all your belongings from home with you.  

Who Can Benefit Most from a Nursing Center? 

There are usually two types of nursing center residents: those admitted short-term after a hospitalization, and those with ongoing physical conditions that require 24-hour care. A nursing center might be right for you if you have limited mobility, chronic illness, or require round-the-clock assistance.

What can I expect in assisted living versus a nursing home?

It’s really a matter of how much care you require.

In assisted living you can expect:

• Health monitoring and nursing support 

• Wellness & Exercise programming 

• Support for activities of daily living (ADLs) 

• Medicine management 

• Meals 

• Social activities 

• Transportation 

• Housekeeping & laundry 

In a nursing home you can expect:

• 24-hour skilled nursing care 

• Rehabilitation services 

• Support for activities of daily living (ADLs) 

• Medicine management 

• Meals 

• Social activities 

• Transportation 

• Housekeeping & laundry

You should meet with a licensed healthcare practitioner such as a physician, nurse practitioner or social worker to develop a plan of care that suits your situation. Once you determine which option will best serve your needs, you’ll have to do some additional research to find the best assisted living community or nursing center for you.

A few suggestions:

Are you a picky eater? Do you want to be within close driving distance of family and friends? Do you prefer communal areas and scheduled activities? Is a particular religious affiliation important to you? 

Talk to your doctor, care providers, friends, and family about any recommendations or opinions. 

You wouldn’t sign a lease on an apartment without seeing it in person, right? Make an appointment with the director of the center and take a tour. Don’t be afraid to ask a lot of questions while you’re there.

The process might seem overwhelming, but the best way to approach it is to take your time and give an honest assessment of your needs and desires. There’s something for everyone out there — and, with the right research, you’ll find a great fit that will make you feel safe, cared for, and comfortable.

If you need help determining the right level of care for yourself or your loved one, contact CareScout and a Care Advocate can assist you.