Difference Between Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities

In order to choose the best form of care for your loved one, it is imperative that you understand the different types of care facilities available as well as the differences between those facilities. Two options families may wish to choose are nursing homes and assisted living facilities. While there are some similarities between those two types of facilities, there are also significant differences.

Nursing Homes

Nursing homes are typically the best option for individuals who require a significant amount of nursing and personal care. This includes individuals who have wounds or fractures that are not healing, those who are bed-bound, and individuals who have multiple health problems. Nursing homes are often regulated by the federal government. Services typically provided in nursing homes include recreational assistants, physical therapists, and occupational therapy. Care is usually provided by nurse’s aides and nurses. A nurse is required be available around-the-clock in a nursing home. Nursing homes are usually located within a single building to ensure residents are able to receive care 24-hours per day. Although residents have the freedom to leave their rooms, some nursing homes have an alarm system to ensure the safety of residents, particularly those who may have dementia.  These facilities are also called Skilled Nursing Facilities, Acute Care Facilities, and Convalescent Facilities.  They are often the transition point between hospital care and a return to home or an Assisted Living Facility.

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities are regulated by the state and are best for individuals who have a higher level of independence and functions. Such individuals are usually able to benefit from wellness programs, exercise, and social activities. One of the main differences that exist between nursing homes and assisted living facilities is that the latter offers residents a wide array of independence and choice and little or no skilled nursing care. Another important difference that exists between a nursing home and an assisted living facility is that in an assisted living facility, residents are able to enjoy a home-like or resort-like environment. A range of different types of living quarters is often available in an assisted living facility, including single-detached homes, duplexes, four-plexes, and group living arrangements. There are also “board and care” facilities that are simply homes that have been licensed to provide care with a care provider on hand throughout the day and night. Residents of assisted living facilities are free to leave and return to the facility as they wish. Van services are sometimes available at assisted living facilities for residents who are not able to drive on their own.  Private duty Care Providers can often be contracted for supplementary attention within many such facilities.  There exists a wide variety of accommodations, services and cost levels among Assisted Living Facilities within the same geographical region.  Much research is needed for a person to find the one that is best for his or her needs.  

Ultimately, the primary differences that exist between nursing homes and assisted living facilities are the levels of care and living arrangements offered.

For additional information contact;

Jon Brandt
General Manager
Always Best Care Central Coast
831-809-0288
www.AlwaysBestCareCentralCoast.com
jbrandt@abc-seniors.com
Serving the Salinas, Monterey Bay Area