07/01/2022
How Does Assisted Living Compare to Other Senior Living Options?
Assisted living falls somewhere between an independent living community and a skilled nursing facility in terms of the level of care provided. It is a good solution for those who need some assistance with ADLs, but can still live somewhat independently and want to retain that independence as long as possible. That being said, some seniors will be better suited for a different senior living option. Below, we explain how assisted living compares to other common senior living options.
Assisted Living Communities vs. Nursing Homes
People often confuse assisted living facilities for nursing homes, but the two senior care options are very different.
The key difference: assisted living communities provide personal care and assistance with ADLs for residents who need help with these activities but do not require skilled nursing care, while nursing homes provide around-the-clock skilled care and medical support. For example, a nursing home would be a good fit for someone who needs a feeding tube, while assisted living would not.
Another big distinction is the types of services and amenities offered. Assisted living communities typically offer a wider range of social activities and outings and have a less institutional, more communal feel than nursing homes. And while nursing homes tend to be more expensive than ALFs, Medicaid and Medicare can be used to cover skilled nursing home costs, which is rarely the case for assisted living.
