It is both daunting and nerve-racking to determine the best type of community for you or an elderly loved one when remaining at home is no longer safe. Assisted Living and Long-Term Care (referred to as nursing homes in the past) have several differences to be considered when making a decision to transition.
What is Long-Term Care?
Long-Term Care communities are regulated by the federal government and designed for those whose needs have progressed beyond the cares offered in Assisted Living. Long-Term Nursing Communities provide on-site nursing care with nurses and therapists staffed around the clock and practicing within their licensed scope of care. Nurses may make decisions in Long-Term Care as opposed to only managing care in an Assisted Living.
A resident could be admitted to Long-Term Nursing while recovering from surgery or receiving rehabilitation services. Here the goal is to restore the patient to their former lifestyle within a chosen time period. Residents diagnosed with a long-term illness or debilitation will be admitted to Long-Term Care where every care need will be met, most often for the rest of their life. The community provides the furnishings but the resident may choose their décor.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted Living is regulated by the state and will differ from one location to another. Here housing, personal care services, and health care is provided for those needing assistance with daily tasks. Independence is encouraged and driven by the wishes of the resident, family and/or physician. Assisted Living Communities offer activities including social hours, interactive events, and outings to promote resident interaction. Seniors benefit emotionally and mentally from socializing with other residents by engaging in these activities and events.
Seniors in Assisted Living have private apartments and are encouraged to bring furniture and decor from home. Independence is encouraged and staff is available to assist the resident. Assistance is commonly included for bathing and medication management. Other choices include transfers, transportation, incontinence care, and others, as each Assisted Living is different.
Facts to Consider When Choosing
There is much to consider when deciding which living community type is best. Listed below are 8 questions to help guide your decision-making when choosing Assisted Living, Long-Term Care:
- What type of care is needed?
- Is my loved one able to perform the activities of daily living with minimal assistance?
- What is the goal of transitioning to a new Senior Living Option?
- How is care paid for?
- What does our medical care team recommend?
- Will additional care be needed in the future?
Bridge to Better Living recognizes a transition to Senior Living may be confusing and, at times, overwhelming. This is why our Transition Consultants are available at all times to assist and guide you. Schedule a consultation to evaluate individual needs and wants. Bridge to Better Living is always at no cost to the client and their family.