Although assisted living facilities and nursing homes are both long-term options for housing and care for older adults, there are some differences between them and these two terms are not synonymous. For those considering the decision on where to live as they get older, it’s important to understand these differences. Assisted living communities and nursing homes provide different types of care.
Assisted living is most well suited for active older adults who need support with certain tasks of everyday life, and nursing homes provide medical care to adults who have significant health issues.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living can be beneficial for older adults who are no longer able to live on their own but also don’t need medical care around-the-clock. Assisted living facilities can have nurses on staff, but the main focus is on supporting residents with daily life rather than medical care.
Activities of daily living (ADLs) are basic tasks that healthy individuals can do on their own each day. Depending upon the needs of individual residents, assisted living facilities may provide aid with:
- Showering
- Dressing
- Preparing meals
- Completing household chores
- Taking medication on time at the correct dose
While providing the support that is needed, assisted living communities also give space for independence and autonomy. Residents usually live in private units, much like apartments, which are part of larger communities that provide opportunities to socialize with other residents. The units in assisted living facilities can have safety features tailored to those with mobility challenges, including shower bars, widened doorways, safety rails, and enhanced lighting.
In next week’s post, I’ll share more about nursing homes and the differences between them and assisted living facilities.
For help with your elder law and estate planning needs, contact us at Wilson and Wilson Estate Planning and Elder Law, LLC at 708-482-7090.
https://www.elderlawanswers.com/assisted-living-and-nursing-homes-whats-the-difference-19463