The 4 key differences between assisted living and nursing homes

When it comes to considering care options for seniors, many people think of assisted living and nursing homes as being synonymous. In fact, these are two very different options that are suited to different people, depending on their needs. Here are some of the key differences between these two types of residential care options:

1. Level of care

The main difference between assisted living and nursing homes is the level of care on offer. Nursing homes are for people with significant health needs who need round-the-clock, specialised medical care. Assisted living is for seniors with less severe needs, such as mobility issues or memory loss, who need help with day-to-day tasks, such as getting dressed and washing. Nursing homes are therefore a good option for seniors with complex medical issues who need medical assistance on hand at all times, whilst assisted living is a good option for seniors who need daily assistance but do not need constant medical care. Assisted living is something of a middle ground between home care and a nursing home with regards to the level of care and may be a good transitional option for many people if they do not have complex medical needs. Signature-care-homes.co.uk offers both nursing home and assisted living options across the UK, so you can decide which one is right for you or a loved one.

2. Independence

Assisted living offers a greater degree of independence to nursing homes. As nursing homes typically house residents with complex needs, residents are not expected to be independent. Assisted living is a good option for seniors who are capable of looking after themselves to a certain degree and would like to maintain their independence, whilst still having assistance on site should they need it. Assisted living typically offers residents their own private apartments to live in within the larger community. Assisted living is not suited to those with complex needs, as they will need the constant medical care and monitoring of a nursing home.

3. Days out

Whilst both nursing homes and assisted living have organised social and recreational activities, assisted living activities sometimes involve trips out, whereas nursing home residents typically remain on site for their safety.

4. Visits from loved ones

Both nursing homes and assisted living allow visits from loved ones. However, assisted living differs from nursing homes in that it often has apartments on site for loved ones to stay in overnight, should they wish.

Deciding which is suitable for you or a loved one

Deciding whether you or a loved one would be better suited to a nursing home or assisted living is mostly a matter of considering you or your loved one’s care needs, particularly in a medical sense. If you feel that you or your friend or relative simply need low-level yet constantly on hand care, assisted living may be the best option. This allows residents to retain a degree of independence whilst still getting the care they need. If you or your loved one has more complex medical needs that need constant monitoring, a nursing home is a more appropriate option as there will always be qualified medical staff on hand to provide the necessary care.