Extended care centers provide safe living facilities for aging individuals. Two common senior living facility types include nursing homes and assisted living communities. The main difference between these services is the level of care provided to residents.
Here’s more information about nursing home and assisted living care programs:
Nursing Home Services
Nursing home facilities offer 24/7 medical care and monitoring for residents. This reduces the burden of care for family members and loved ones of individuals who need significant support. Licensed nurses and other medical professionals manage residents’ medication schedules, wound care, and illness treatment. The purpose of these facilities is to maintain residents’ health and quality of life. Long-term nursing professionals also help residents perform daily tasks like bathing, eating, walking, and dressing.
Assisted Living Services
Assisted living facilities offer more flexible living arrangements for seniors who want to maintain some independence while having immediate access to healthcare services. Residents may be assigned to private living suites with kitchens, bathrooms, and other features and furnishings. The medical professionals who work in assisted living communities develop individualized care plans for each resident to make sure they are comfortable and healthy. Daily life may include group meals in shared dining rooms and organized recreational activities. The facility creates opportunities for residents to socialize with others and stay physically and mentally active.
Some assisted living communities have amenities and services like fitness centers, salons, housekeeping, and transportation. Communities with fitness centers may offer group exercise classes, physical therapy sessions, and adaptive gym equipment for individuals of varying physical abilities. On-site salons and barber shops allow residents to maintain their personal care and appearance preferences. Housekeeping and transportation services give residents clean, safe living spaces and enable them to retain their mobility and independence.
How To Choose a Facility
Look for a Medicaid-certified facility to receive healthcare and living accommodations that are covered by insurance. This makes high-quality senior living and care more affordable for individuals and families. Schedule visits to nursing homes or assisted living communities to tour their amenities and determine whether they adhere to regulatory cleanliness and safety standards.
Ask the staff members how much one-on-one care they offer each resident. If your loved one needs a significant amount of attention, a nursing facility may be a good option. These teams care for individuals with long-term mental and physical conditions related to age, like Alzheimer’s, dementia, and frequent falls. If your loved one is more mobile or has less severe mental or physical conditions, they may prefer an assisted living community. Explore the residential suites to determine whether they are private or shared to determine whether the facility matches your loved one’s privacy preferences.
Find a High-Quality Extended Care Facility
If your loved one needs more medical attention than you can provide them at home, it may be time to find a long-term care facility. An individual’s health and independence determine the level of care they will need, helping you choose between a nursing home and an assisted living facility. Some senior care centers also offer on-site rehab programs to help individuals recover from injuries, illnesses, and surgeries. Contact a reputable senior living community today to learn more about their services and amenities.
