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Once you realize your loved one needs additional personal assistance around the house, it can be difficult to figure out the next steps. They could move to an assisted living community, or you could hire a professional caregiver to provide home care. Each choice has its pros and cons, but which one helps your family member maintain or maximize their current lifestyle?
How much home care your loved one needs depends on their mobility and overall health. For example, if they need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like dressing, bathing or housekeeping, having a home health aide stop by daily could help. However, once your family member goes beyond two or three main areas of focus, home care becomes more expensive and harder to coordinate.
Assisted living provides your loved one help with ADLs and access to around-the-clock care. In addition, assisted living communities also have a range of services and amenities.
To help you decide between assisted living and home care, here are some of their pros and cons.
Home care benefits for your family member:
Assisted living benefits for your love:
While there might be an option that’s best for your family member’s needs, it’s important to know some of the common limitations they can run into with home care and assisted living.
Home care cons:
Assisted Living Cons:
There are more reasons to consider moving into assisted living than just ADLs.
Expanded social circle: Moving to an assisted living community is a great way for your family member to meet new people.
Fall prevention: Assisted living communities are designed with safety features and have staff available around the clock in case an accident does happen.
Chronic health problems: If your family member has ongoing health problems, having access to care is vital to their safety. As a Life Plan Community, Freedom Square of Bradenton offers higher levels of care including memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, if ever needed.
Better nutrition: Weight gain or loss can be a sign of serious medical problems or that your loved one is having trouble preparing food. Freedom Square offers restaurant-style dining with well-balanced chef-inspired meals.
Mobility issues: If your loved one is having trouble walking or getting up and down stairs, moving to an assisted living community is one way to ensure their safety.
Difficulty with household chores: It’s easy to fall behind on maintenance and upkeep until it becomes overwhelming. Making the move to a maintenance-free community can free them from the responsibilities of homeownership.
Prevent caregiver burnout: Being the primary caregiver for an older adult is rewarding but it’s also hard physical and emotional work. Feeling burned out can seriously affect your ability to care for your loved one. Making the move to assisted living allows you to reassume the role of a loving family member without the worry of handling their daily care. If you just need a break, respite care at an assisted living community is a great way to get some time for yourself and your family while allowing your loved one to “try out” a community.
Genworth, a national provider of long-term care insurance, conducts surveys to determine the cost of care around the country. In 2023, the national monthly average of assisted living care was $5,350. According to Genworth, the average cost of assisted living in Bradenton, Florida, was $385 a month lower at $4,965. In comparison, the average monthly cost for a home health aide (assuming 44 hours/week) was $6,292 nationally and $6,673 in Bradenton.
NOTE: While this is a good general number to get you started, the cost of care varies based on setting, geographic location and level of care required. These numbers are an average that includes all assisted living from communities that offer semi-private rooms up to those with a full apartment. It also includes a small community with limited activities to ones with resort-style amenities and on-site health care.
As you consider your choices, here are some financing options to keep in mind:
Long-term care insurance: While Medicare and most private health insurance plans don’t cover assisted living, this type of policy typically does.
Medicaid: The federal/state health care program for people with low incomes and limited assets may provide some help if you’ve exhausted other financial resources. Contact your state’s Medicaid agency or Area Agency on Aging to learn more.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The Aid and Attendance benefit, a supplement to VA pensions for older veterans who need help with daily living activities, can help pay for assisted living. VA health care does not pay for room and board at an assisted living community but might cover some additional services. Contact your state or regional VA pension management center for details.
To get all your questions answered about our care and assisted living lifestyle at Freedom Village of Bradenton, use our Community Assistant chat feature or contact us here. You can schedule a personal visit and learn more about our respite care.
It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.
As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.
On Monday, April 7, 2025, we had the joy and honor of hosting our annual Volunteer Luncheon, a heartfelt celebration dedicated to the incredible individuals who make our mission possible each and every day. Held in a spirit of gratitude and community, the event brought together volunteers with over 100 hours of service for a beautiful luncheon provided by Metz Chef 2 Home. The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to several outstanding volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service. From delivering meals with a smile to lending a helping hand wherever needed, these volunteers embody the true spirit of giving.The 2025 award recipients included:Champions Circle: Ten Years of ServiceDan WilhelmChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServiceTerri HillChampions Circle: 300+ Hours of ServicePat McDonaldOutstanding Food Bank Volunteer: Terri HillOutstanding Volunteer Ambassador: Veronica Brandon-MillerOutstanding Youth Volunteer: Jonathan MaassenMost Generous Group Ambassador: Lakewood Ranch Elks LodgeOutstanding Volunteer Group: First WatchOutstanding Administrative Volunteer: Barbara BrownOutstanding Friendship Dining Center Volunteer: Pam O ConnorOutstanding Car Loader: Charlie GunnOutstanding Warehouse Volunteer: Lana PaulRookies of the Year: Jeff and Christy MohlerOutstanding Daybreak Adult Day Center Volunteer: Larry BreidenbachOutstanding Telephone Reassurance Volunteer: Reina HuertaVolunteer of the Year: Terri HillTo every volunteer who gives their time and heartthank you. Our Volunteers are the reason we are able to serve our neighbors in need with care, dignity, and hope. We look forward to another year of making a difference together.
The Inn at Freedom Village offers 24-hour skilled nursing care designed to provide advanced long-term care with the comfort and support of home. Here's what you or your loved one can expect from our skilled nursing services:Tailored care plans: Residents at The Inn at Freedom Village are treated as treasured family members, and our caring staff takes the time to develop personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. Whether for short-term or long-term stays, we anticipate needs and provide highly personalized care and transition support.Supportive environment: Residents receive care in a supportive environment where their comfort and well-being are prioritized. Our staff assists with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication administration, ensuring residents' needs are met with compassion and dignity.Engaging activities: We encourage residents to stay engaged in activities appropriate for them, offering opportunities for socialization, recreation, and personal enrichment. Our beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds provide serene outdoor spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.Comprehensive amenities: Skilled nursing services and amenities include private or companion suites, all-inclusive monthly fees covering care, living, and dining costs, daily housekeeping and laundry service, and 24-hour nursing care. We also hold regular care meetings with residents and their families to ensure ongoing communication and support.At The Inn at Freedom Village, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive skilled nursing care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for each resident by meeting their individual needs with personalized care and support.
Freedom Village of Bradenton offers independent living with a wealth of amenities and services designed to enhance your lifestyle. Here's what you can expect as a resident:Freedom from homeownership responsibilities: As an independent living resident, you'll enjoy the freedom of leaving behind the burdens of homeownership. Spend your days as you please, knowing that maintenance and other household tasks are taken care of for you.Vibrant, active lifestyle: Recognized as a 2024 Best Independent Living community by U.S. News & World Report, Freedom Village of Bradenton offers a vibrant, active lifestyle. Explore new interests, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a full social life with a wide range of amenities and activities.Life Plan Community with Life Care contract: As a Life Plan Community, Freedom Village of Bradenton provides convenient access to higher levels of quality on-campus care if needed. With the Life Care contract, you'll enjoy financial predictability and access to a continuum of care, ensuring peace of mind for the future.Resort-like amenities: Residents have access to resort-like amenities and services, including fitness facilities, recreational activities, social events, and more. Nurture connections, explore new learning experiences, and stay active and engaged within the community.Maintenance-free residences: Choose from villa homes or one-, two-, and three-bedroom senior apartments, each with its own private balcony or lanai. Enjoy maintenance-free living and the freedom to personalize your space with your favorite flooring and paint colors.Pet-friendly community: Freedom Village of Bradenton welcomes pets, allowing residents to enjoy the companionship of their furry friends.Experience the freedom, convenience, and enrichment of independent living at Freedom Village of Bradenton, where you can live life to the fullest and feel confident about the future.
Welcome to Freedom Village of Bradenton, a Life Plan Community dedicated to providing vibrant and fulfilling lifestyles for seniors. Here, you'll discover a community that offers a wealth of amenities, services, and care options to support your needs and preferences at every stage of life.As a resident of Freedom Village of Bradenton, you'll experience:Independence: Enjoy the freedom to live life on your terms, with a range of residential options and maintenance-free living that allows you to focus on the things that matter most to you.Quality Care: Benefit from access to a continuum of care services, including assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, all conveniently located on our campus. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care and support tailored to your individual needs.Engaging Lifestyle: Discover a vibrant community where you can nurture connections, explore new interests, and participate in a variety of social, recreational, and educational activities. From fitness classes to cultural outings, there's always something exciting happening at Freedom Village of Bradenton.Financial Security: With our Life Care contract, you'll enjoy financial predictability and peace of mind, knowing that your future healthcare needs are covered. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you can age in place with confidence, surrounded by a supportive and caring community.Pet-Friendly Environment: Bring your furry friends along to join you on your journey at Freedom Village of Bradenton. We understand the important role pets play in our residents' lives and welcome them with open arms.Whether you're seeking an active retirement lifestyle or need additional support and care, Freedom Village of Bradenton is here to help you live your best life. We invite you to explore all that our community has to offer and discover why so many seniors choose to call us home. Welcome to Freedom Village of Bradenton, where every day is an opportunity for freedom, joy, and fulfillment.