Assisted Living vs. Home Care

Assisted living and home care are the two common ways to take care of an elderly family member who needs special attention. However, choosing between these two options is often stressful and overwhelming because they both have perceived benefits and downsides.

A community preference survey by the AARP revealed that out of four adults aged 50, three preferred to age at home. However, some came to love the idea of assisted living despite often resisting it at first.

Let’s guide you through everything about assisted living and home care to help you decide the best option for your elderly parents or relatives.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities provide personalized care to older adults who might need assistance with with day to day activities. Some services available at assisted living communities include;

• Meal services
• Medication management
• Social activities
• Housekeeping and laundry services

Benefits of Assisted living

According to Michelle Aweshah, regional sales director at a Place for Mom, the fear of change makes older adults want to stay at home. However, the elderly can find a home in assisted living communities over time. Here are some of the benefits;

• Social activities and services

Aweshah says that one may feel independent staying at home, but if they cannot engage in day-to-day activities like driving or visiting friends, they may feel isolated or depressed.

Being independent can decrease the quality and longevity of life. The good thing about assisted living facilities is that they provide games, nutritious foods, transportation, and social activities.

Some other activities include;

• Concierge
• Daily activities
• Beauty salons and barber rooms
• Movie theaters
• Gyms

Most assisted living facilities offer both short-term and long-term care depending on the needs of the senior elderly. Many communities allow you to terminate your stay at any time, provided you give a 30-day notice.

• Continual care

Assisted living facilities have skilled and experienced staff members to ensure the well-being and safety of residents both day and night. They also have nurses and mobile services for therapy services, physician appointments, and many more.

Cost of Assisted Living

The costs include housing, care, activities, transportation, meals and more in one monthly bill. Many assisted living communities cost the same or less than living isolated at home alone with home care.

What is Home Care?

Home care provides transportation, companionship, and daily assistance for the elderly seniors living at home. However, nursing isn’t among the home care services.

Home care services include;

• Housekeeping
• Grooming
• Meal preparation
• Bathing
• Dressing

Benefits of home-care

• Help with daily tasks; In-home caregivers assist with light housekeeping, meal preparation, and cleaning.
• Companionship; Home care provides a one-on-one companionship through activities like playing games, reading aloud, and engaging in active conversations.
• Customized elderly home care; in-home caregivers provide customized services based on your needs and lifestyle.

What are Home Care Costs?

The costs of home care services vary depending on the home care agency, your location, staff salaries, among other things.

According to Genworth, the US’s cost of home care services was approximately $4,576 per month as of 2020. If you’re considering home care services, you need to evaluate additional charges, including maintenance repairs, groceries, and utilities.

Assisted Living vs. Home Care: Which is Best for My Loved One?

Home care might be a good choice as long as you’re able to provide your loved one with the support and care that they need to lead happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Assisted living offers many benefits, both in terms of social activities and support for daily needs as well as financial considerations.

Want to learn about the benefits of Assisted and Independent Living? Schedule a Tour of The Elms Today!

Since you have found The Elms online, why not schedule a tour right now by calling (401) 596-4630 or sending an email. We would love to show you all of the wonderful amenities and activities that residents throughout our campus enjoy everyday.