What Are The Options In Senior Care?
At The Crossings at Riverchase, we proudly assist families in Birmingham and the surrounding areas as they navigate the senior care journey. Below, you’ll find helpful information about the differences between assisted living and nursing homes to help you determine which option best fits you and your loved one.
About Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are a type of residential care for seniors that provide comprehensive skilled care for individuals who generally need assistance for most or all of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Considered as a step below hospital acute care, nursing homes offer medical care by trained medical staff, such as a registered nurse or therapist, 24 hours a day. Residents of nursing homes usually have advanced care needs and/or complex medical conditions that require routine skilled nursing services.
Advantages
- Provides a place for individuals whose health care needs cannot be met by family or other senior living options.
- Often include life-enriching activities, offering more daily interaction and amenities compared to home care.
Disadvantages
- Due to the high level of medical attention, may provide less privacy than other types of care and usually have shared rooms.
- The level of care can vary between locations, so it’s important to research each community and review its state ratings.
About Assisted Living?
Assisted living is a type of community designed for seniors who need some help with day-to-day activities but don’t require the level of care found in nursing homes. These communities provide living quarters, meals, laundry, housekeeping, medication management and assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, grooming and mobility as needed.
Advantages
- Offers more privacy and independence, with seniors living in their own apartments and choosing how to spend their time.
- Provides individualized support for daily activities, along with a variety of dining options and engaging programming.
Disadvantages
- Some seniors may find it challenging to leave their home and adjust to a new living situation.
- The quality of care and the services offered can vary, so families should look closely at what is included.
The overall difference between nursing home care and assisted living is that nursing homes mainly provide medical attention and personal care in a more clinical setting, while assisted living provides personalized support in a more home-like setting. At The Crossings at Riverchase, assisted living also includes wellness programming and activities to engage the mind, body and soul. Our three levels of living provide options that are tailored to the needs of our residents – whether in independent living, assisted living or memory care. Contact us to learn more.