Assisted Living vs. Home Care

Author

Visiting Angels - Durango

Posted on

Mar 03, 2023

Book/Edition

Colorado - Southern Colorado

If you’re contemplating senior care options for a loved one, you’ve probably heard about “assisted living.” You may have looked for information on various assisted living facilities in your area. Did you know in-home care can also be an option — even if your loved one is living with a condition that causes health, cognitive, or mobility challenges?

The main difference between assisted living and home care is the location where the care is provided. Assisted living refers to support provided in a residential facility, where your loved one may reside in an accessible apartment, townhome, or suite with a private bathroom.

Home care is provided in your loved one’s residence without the need to relocate to an assisted living facility. Home care enables seniors to age in place in the comfort of their own homes with familiar surroundings and routines.

What Services Are Provided by Assisted Living vs. Home Care?

Assisted living facilities and home care offer similar personal care services, including help with the following:

  • Grooming
  • Dressing
  • Bathing
  • Toileting
  • Errands
  • Cooking and meal preparation
  • Laundry
  • Light housekeeping
  • Mobility and transfers
  • Medication reminders
  • Transportation

However, in-home personal care professionals will provide dedicated, one-on-one care at your loved one’s home. An in-home caregiver will focus entirely on your loved one’s preferences, comfort, and safety.

Assisted living care is provided by facility staff members, who may care for multiple residents during each shift. As a result, it may be more challenging for team members to provide the level of personalized care your loved one may need.

What Is the Cost of Assisted Living vs. Home Care?

Costs vary across the U.S. for assisted living and home care services. However, assisted living usually comes with a higher price tag — and often requires residents to make a significant, up-front financial deposit before moving into the facility.

On the other hand, an in-home personal care provider can offer flexibility and home care cost savings if your loved one needs assistance at certain times of day, such as first thing in the morning, at bedtime, or overnight. For example, Visiting Angels will customize your caregiver’s schedule so you’re not paying for services that aren’t needed.

At an assisted-living facility, residents pay one price for 24/7 care, whether it’s necessary or not. Assisted living facilities often offer amenities, such as exercise facilities, social clubs, trips, and meal plans. Although these amenities may be convenient, they also drive up the overall cost of care. When considering care options, ensure your loved one will use these amenities to justify the higher price.

What Else Do You Need To Know About Assisted Living vs. Home Care?

Other differences between assisted living and home care include:

  • Assisted living facilities often have a waiting list for residential openings, while home care services can typically start within a few days.
  • In-home care can be canceled at any time with two weeks’ notice, while assisted living involves a permanent move to a new facility.
  • In-home personal care providers do not offer medical care, but some assisted living facilities may have medical providers on staff who can deliver health care services.
  • Living in a congregate setting such as an assisted living facility may increase the risk of contracting colds, flu, stomach bugs, and other contagious illnesses compared to aging in place with in-home personal care.

Learn More About Visiting Angels’ Personalized Home Care

Choosing between in-home personal care and an assisted living facility is a complex, highly personal decision, and it’s essential to explore all your options. If you are considering in-home personal care services, Visiting Angels offers free in-home consultations for older adults and their loved ones. During the consultation, a Visiting Angels care coordinator will answer your questions, learn about your loved one’s care needs, and discuss how in-home services might be able to help.

Contact Visiting Angels today!

If you're interested in our compassionate home care services for you or a loved one, contact your nearest Visiting Angels home care agency today or call 800-365-4189.

Other Articles You May Like

We are a Veteran-Owned Business Proud to Serve our Community

Veteran-owned HomeWell puts veterans first, offering exceptional in-home care that honors their service and values.As veterans, we understand the importance of protecting the well-being of others. Our service-driven approach is rooted in the values of perseverance, respect, dignity and honor as we aid families in need, support fellow veterans and help our community thrive through exceptional in-home care services. Committed to providing you with the peaceful retirement youve earned.The retirement years of those who have served should be marked by dignity, comfort and belonging. However, for veterans whose years of service are etched with valor and sacrifice, life as a citizen can prove challenging. Depending on their experiences, the transition to normalcy and everyday life can be a long-term endeavorone that continues well into their senior years.At HomeWell, weve found that the comfort of home can make all the difference for our esteemed soldiers who seek to age gracefully. For these individuals, maintaining autonomy is not just a preference; its a testament to the resilience that defines them. By bringing care directly to their doorstep, senior veterans can enjoy the familiarity of their own space while receiving the individualized care they need. Our role in veterans care:Our service-driven approach is rooted in the values of perseverance, respect, dignity and honor as we support veterans and their families, ultimately helping our community thrive through exceptional in-home care services. We thoughtfully consider the individual needs of each veteran entrusted to our care to develop a highly personalized plan that takes into account their physical, mental and emotional well-being at home.We also extend a helping hand to veterans and their families as they navigate their finances. We understand that paying out of pocket often hinders them from pursuing non-medical home care. However, if your loved one is enrolled in health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or has a monthly VA pension, they may be eligible to receive coverage for assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) at HomeWell.  If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans Care in Plano, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX  today. Call (469) 596-6500HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.

HomeWell Care Services Plano, TX Shines Our Employee Spotlight on Community Relations Manager, Jerry Gorman!

This month, we shine our Employee Spotlight on Community Relations Manager, Jerry Gorman!Jerry is a senior living professional with over 35 years of sales, marketing, operations, and management experience. He is a servant-driven leader focused on helping his clients live their best lives by understanding their needs and exceeding their expectations.Jerry most recently worked in Senior Living as a Community Sales Director and Executive Director for many years before joining HomeWell Care Services in June of 2022 as the Community Relations Manager serving the North Dallas area.His responsibilities include creating positive brand awareness, networking with professional organizations, building relationships with senior living communities, churches, rehabilitation centers, adult senior centers, hospitals, and more that will result in long-lasting community partnerships, and keeping our home care services top of mind within the community we serve.Thank you, Jerry, for being an amazing professional. You are an asset to our companys continuing growth and make a difference in the lives of your clients and HomeWell Care Services Plano, TX! If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Plano, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX today!Call (469) 596-6500HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.

Exploring Assisted Living; A Guide to Its Inner Workings

Assisted living has gained popularity among adults looking for a blend of independence and care. Having a grasp of how assisted living functions can empower individuals and families to make informed choices regarding this form of support. This article will explain the elements of assisted living covering the services provided the financial structure and how Seniors Blue Book can act as a valuable resource for exploring assisted living options. Defining Assisted LivingAssisted living serves as a choice for seniors requiring some aid with activities but desiring to uphold their independence. These facilities offer a nurturing setting with access to care services, social engagements and amenities aimed at enriching residents lives.Range of ServicesAssisted living communities deliver an array of services customized to cater to residents specific needs. These services may include:  Personal Care Assistance; Support with activities like bathing, dressing, grooming and toileting. Medication Management; Assistance with medication schedules and administration. Healthcare Oversight; Health monitoring and coordination of care.Dining Services; Well balanced meals prepared on site along with provisions, for dietary preferences or restrictions.Housekeeping and Laundry; We offer housekeeping and laundry services to ensure your living space stays clean and comfortable. Social and Recreational Activities; Enjoy a variety of activities and outings that focus on socializing staying active and keeping your mind engaged.Transportation Services; We provide scheduled transportation, for appointments shopping trips and outings to make sure you can get where you need to go.24 Hour Staff Availability; Our staff is available around the clock for emergencies. Any assistance you may require. Cost StructureThe cost of assisted living can vary based on factors like location, size of living quarters and the level of care needed. Typically the cost covers room and board care services as amenities. Some places might have pricing tiers depending on the residents care needs.How Assisted Living Works (example community) Assessment; Before moving in residents undergo an assessment to understand their care needs and preferences. This helps us create a care plan for each resident.Move In; Once the assessment is done and a care plan is in place residents can move into our facility. Each resident usually has their semi private space, within our community.Care Services; Our facility provides the care services outlined in each residents personalized care plan. Staff members are always, on hand to assist residents with whatever they need.Social Activities; Assisted living communities provide a range of events and services to keep residents engaged and active. These activities might include group outings, fitness classes and arts and crafts sessions.Health Monitoring; Assisted living facilities keep track of residents health status and organize care as required. This could involve check ups, managing medications. Helping with doctor appointments.Family Engagement; Families are encouraged to participate in the care of their loved ones at assisted living facilities. Many places offer opportunities for families to visit and join in activities with the residents. How Seniors Blue Book Can Be HelpfulSeniors Blue Book serves as a resource guide for individuals and families exploring living options. Here's how Seniors Blue Book can be beneficial:Detailed Directory; Seniors Blue Book provides a listing of living facilities offering detailed information, about services, amenities, pricing and contact details. This resource can assist individuals and families in finding a facility that suits their needs and budget. We currently have 28 Seniors Blue Book markets with custom editions (semi-annual or annual). Expert Advice; Seniors Blue Book offers expert advice and resources to help individuals and families navigate the process of selecting an assisted living facility. Their team of professionals can offer recommendations based on preferences and requirements.Seniors Blue Book provides materials and articles covering aspects of assisted living, such, as caregiving, legal and financial planning and the transition to assisted living. These resources are valuable for individuals and families seeking guidance in making informed choices regarding living care.**To sum up, assisted living is a housing alternative for seniors requiring some support with activities while aiming to retain their independence. Assisted living communities offer a variety of services and amenities to improve residents quality of life. Seniors Blue Book serves as a resource tool offering information and assistance to aid individuals and families in navigating the selection process for an assisted living facility.

Local Services By This Author

Visiting Angels

Non-Medical 610 East 8th Avenue, Durango, Colorado, 81301

Visiting Angels is a Non-Medical In-Home Care provider. We assist with activities of daily living to keep the elderly, disabled, and veterans safe and independent in their home. Our professionals are trained in hospice, palliative, dementia care, and much more. We aim to brighten the home and better the health of all our dear clients!