Assisted living communities are not nursing homes, despite what many people believe. These two types of senior living have become increasingly distinct over the last few decades. Nursing homes are no longer used as a catch-all term for senior care. So what’s the main difference between assisted living and nursing home in Roanoke, VA?
Assisted living communities offer a more social lifestyle to seniors who are generally active but require assistance with daily tasks. Nursing homes, on the other hand, offer long-term medical care to adults who have serious health problems. Because of the higher level of care, nursing homes typically cost more than assisted living.
What Exactly Is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is an excellent option for seniors who are unable to live alone but wish to maintain a social life. They provide long-term housing for older adults who are generally active but require assistance with daily living activities (ADLs). These may include bathing, dressing, using the toilet, and medication management.
Furthermore, assisted living fosters a strong sense of community. Residents have privacy in their apartments, but they eat together in the dining room. Team members typically plan activities, entertainment, and outings throughout the month.
What Exactly Is A Nursing Home?
Nursing homes care for seniors and others who require round-the-clock monitoring and medical attention. Elderly adults who require long-term care in a nursing home frequently have severe physical or cognitive health issues that necessitate 24-hour nursing care. They may be bedridden or require the assistance of staff members to use a wheelchair.
How Do Assisted Living And Nursing Home Services Compare?
Assisted living communities provide services and amenities to help residents maintain their health, social engagement, and independence. While nursing homes focus on these areas as well, the biggest difference is that it provides round-the-clock medical care and skilled nurses to treat more severe health problems. Trained medical professionals are always available to help your loved one. If a member of your family has a serious medical condition, they will most likely require specialized care from licensed healthcare professionals in a skilled nursing facility.
Services And Amenities Provided By Assisted Living Facilities May Include:
- Happy hours and restaurant-style Sensations dining
- Transportation and excursions
- Celebrations, activities and events tailored to the social interests of residents
- Housekeeping, laundry, and upkeep
- Medication and assistance with daily activities
- Apartments with kitchenettes and bathrooms
Nursing Homes May Provide The Following Services:
- Long-term palliative and preventative care
- Administration of prescription medications, including injections
- Occupational, speech, physical, cognitive, respiratory, and vocational therapy
- Dental services
- Meal options that must meet each resident’s daily nutritional requirements as well as their individual dietary needs, such as pureed and liquid diets
- Increased safety and security features, such as ADA-accessible spaces, grab bars, and alarmed doorways
