Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home: Costs, Care, and How to Decide

How to Decide Between Assisted Living and a Nursing Home

Acceptance criteria for assisted living vs a nursing home is determined by the amount of care and medical attention needed. When the person has the ability to manage some activities of daily living with occasional assistance, assisted living is an option. If the person has limited mobility, a serious medical condition, or needs ongoing medical care, a nursing home is likely more appropriate. Deciding between assisted living or a nursing home also includes considering your loved one’s circumstances, while comparing each facility’s services, costs, and amenities to make an informed decision.

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home for Dementia Care

When it comes to dementia care,  the progression of your loved one’s condition and the type of care they need will determine if they need assisted living or a nursing home. Some assisted livings have memory care units in their facilities with a safe environment for residents who have mild to moderate dementia. They have a structured environment with activities to encourage cognitive functioning. Memory care nursing homes are equipped for those who have progressed to later stages of dementia that need constant supervision, and complex medical care. Long-term dementia care patients need a higher level of care than residents in assisted living. 

Cost of Assisted Living vs Nursing Home

Monthly costs of assisted living facilities are usually less than nursing homes which require more medical care. Assisted living facilities charge an average price of  $5,000 and up each month. Nursing homes, with 24/7 supervision, cost $7,000 or more per month, depending on their specific services and location.

Also Read: How to Make Assisted Living Feel Like Home

Does Insurance Cover Assisted Living or Nursing Homes?

Understanding insurance coverage for assisted living and nursing homes requires reading the details of your policy since it varies. Long-term care insurance may offer coverage for both. Medicare covers short-term nursing home rehab after hospitalization, but doesn’t cover costs for assisted living. Medicaid includes nursing home costs, but their assisted living coverage depends on specific state programs. Review the terms of your insurance plan for more details. 

Assisted Living Facility Near Me: What to Look For

Consider these benefits  when searching for  the best assisted living:

• Amenities Offered: Options for meals and dining, recreation and fitness,  and transportation.
• Care Services: Review their options for personalized care plans, medication management, and assistance with daily activities.
• Cost and Contracts: Transparent pricing, clear terms for provided services, and payment options.
• Location: Proximity to family, friends, doctors, and hospitals.
• Safety: A clean, secure environment, with emergency response systems in place.
• Staff Qualifications: Trained, compassionate staff with a good staff-to-resident ratio.

Lifestyle in Assisted Living vs Nursing Homes

The lifestyle in assisted living centers around community and independent living,  allowing residents to be social and active, and engage in group outings, communal meals, and hobbies. Nursing homes provide compassionate care for their residents, emphasizing safety, health, and comfort. 

When to Move from Assisted Living to a Nursing Home

Moving from assisted living to a skilled nursing facility (SNF)can be necessary when your loved one’s health needs surpass what assisted living is capable of providing. Differences in assisted living vs SNF take into account specialized medical care needs and chronic illnesses. Signs they may need to be moved to a nursing home or SNF can include trouble managing daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or eating, Other indications might be an increase in cognitive decline, frequent falls, wandering, or forgetting to take medications. If your loved one needs 24-hour nursing care or medical monitoring, transferring to an SNF will ensure their safety and comfort. Consulting with healthcare professionals and having them assess their situation and health can help you decide when they need to be moved. 

How Do I Transition a Loved One to Assisted Living?

To help a loved one transition to assisted living use patience and understanding. Involve them in the decision-making process by visiting facilities along with them, while listening to their preferences. Reassure them their independence will be considered, discuss personalized care and the available opportunities for social interaction. Visits and participation in activities may familiarize them with the new environment before they move. After moving, help them get settled in and decorate their space with their favorite things. 

Provide them with emotional support and encouragement and visit them so they adjust to their new lifestyle. 

Also Read: Elderly Parent Refuses Assisted Living

Best Assisted Living Near Me for Memory Care in San Diego

Stellar Care considers it an honor to offer support and compassionate care for your loved one. The complex nature of aging makes it difficult to decide what type of care they may need and at what stage they should be moved. Each person should be treated with respect and dignity, which is part of the Stellar Care philosophy. Providing safety for our residents is a Stellar Care priority. We warmly welcome you to visit our facility, connect with us,  and explore the exceptional services our dedicated staff provides to our residents and experience the difference that defines our Stellar Care Assisted Living facility and our Alzheimer’s and Memory Care services. 

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