Choosing Between Assisted Living And Nursing Homes

Assisted Living Memory Care is an option for adults who require assistance with activities of daily living but do not need full-time nursing home care. In this type of residential care, a trained staff member may help you with bathing or dressing, reminding you to take medications as needed and providing socialization opportunities through activities programming. Unlike independent living, memory care communities provide around-the-clock supervision and offer a secure environment with locked exits to keep residents safe.

Many families who use memory care pay out of pocket, although private savings and long-term care insurance are options, says Richard Newman, an elder law attorney in Pennsylvania. Some Seniors Places can also qualify for government aid programs such as Medicaid, veterans benefits or home health care. Newman advises talking with family, friends and trusted health care providers before making a decision about what type of senior care to choose.

In addition to home health aides, in-home caregiver services and adult day centers, other options for senior care include residential assisted living communities, nursing homes and retirement homes. Each type of care has its own unique set of advantages and drawbacks. Depending on your needs and the type of memory care you require, one type may be more suitable than another.

Nursing homes are a level of senior care that houses people with many types of disabilities and health issues. They typically serve as an alternative to a hospital stay and can be used for short stays, such as following a surgery or hospitalization. Generally, nurses are available to administer medication and monitor your condition. They can also provide physical and occupational therapy, some outpatient health services and prescription drug costs and durable medical equipment such as shower stools or bedside commodes.

Assisted living is a type of senior housing that helps individuals remain as independent as possible by offering support services such as meals, housekeeping, transportation and activities. This type of senior living is regulated by state agencies and can vary from facility to facility. It is important to know if a community offers the level of care you require before moving in.

Memory care is a specialized type of assisted living that provides individualized care for seniors with dementia. This includes Seniors Places disease and other forms of dementia. This type of care is usually governed by state regulations and is provided by licensed, skilled nurses and other healthcare professionals. Memory care is often more expensive than assisted living, but less than nursing home care.

If you are considering memory care, ask about the costs associated with the specific community you are considering and whether they increase their rates each year. Also, check with the management of each community to see how frequently they have increased their rates in the past. You should also know that some communities charge an initial community fee prior to move-in, which can be refundable or non-refundable. Also, be aware that some memory care communities are only licensed for certain levels of care.