Nursing elderly

Understanding The Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

There are a variety of senior living options that can be quite confusing for some.

When you’re thinking about the comfort and the safety of your loved one, you need to be sure of your choice. But, with all the choices available in Ogden, you can get overwhelmed. Sometimes, some of these options look similar, and it can cloud your judgment.

With that, we’re here to assist you in choosing from assisted living and nursing homes. Hopefully, by the end of this, you’ll have a better understanding of these two options that can help you in your choice.

What is the Main Difference Between the Two?

Assisted living and nursing home facilities are quite the same. Both are catered towards seniors who need physical and medical assistance.

So, what’s the difference between them?

Nursing home facilities are for seniors that typically need more medical assistance. They have more complicated health problems and therefore need round-the-clock monitoring. Because of that, nursing homes usually have skilled nurses and therapists to tend to the elderly.

Meanwhile, assisted living is usually for people that require more custodial care. The inhabitants are generally for those who have dementia or have problems with mobility. The facility monitors the inhabitants, but unless they need assistance, they usually have more independence.

This difference alone can help you know which retirement community is ideal for your loved ones.

Which has a Better Environment?

If you’re meticulous about the overall atmosphere, then you might want to try and check out assisted living more.

These facilities are similar to high-end apartment communities. Most of the time, the residents have their apartments and suites.

There’s also more outdoor space such as gardens and mini-parks where residents can relax. These areas are typically used for more extensive activities that the community encourages.

Nursing homes have some sort of institutional feel to it, generally because they focus on medical assistance. The place is usually one big area with lots of different rooms, with each inhabitant staying in a private or shared room.

Of course, there are common areas for them, such as an entertainment area, which is practically the biggest space.

How to Choose a Retirement Community

nurse taking care of an elder woman

By now, you probably have an idea which type of facility your loved ones need. The only problem is how to choose a specific one.

There are a few things you need to consider, but the most important ones are their safety and comfort.

Ensure that the retirement community you choose guarantees they are always safe. For one, it should be a gated community, to keep the residents safe at all times. There should also be guards and staff continuously monitoring the place.

When it comes to comfort, you’ll want to ensure their living spaces are comfortable. If you’re comfortable in a place, then your loved ones will likely feel the same way. Plus, they should be served with excellent and healthy food.

Of course, check the costs. You’ll want something you can afford monthly but still covers everything.

It’s not necessary to bring your loved ones to a senior care facility. However, some families can’t always care for their elderly. Instead of risking their safety, nursing homes, or assisted living can guarantee their needs are met.

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