Long-term care is an important topic for people to learn about sooner rather than later. At some point, they or a loved one will probably need it. And, when this happens, they’ll have to play catch up … and there’s a lot of information to digest.
The American Health Care Association estimates that there are nearly 30,000 assisted living facilities in the U.S. today and more than 15,000 skilled nursing facilities. Choosing the right living environment for yourself or a loved one can be hard. There are many facility types, costs, locations, and specialists involved that trying to choose between skilled nursing and assisted living can feel overwhelming.
Here’s a list that details the important information you need to make the best decision.
Both skilled nursing and assisted living are expensive, but many find that the former is usually much pricier than the latter. Because skilled nursing facilities provide around-the-clock care, costs reflect this level of attention.
No matter what you choose, it’s important to remember that you might have to find additional assistance besides Medicare. With skilled nursing, Medicare will only cover costs for a short time after hospitalization. On the flip side, Medicare doesn’t cover costs for assisted living, so you will have to find help with long term care insurance, private funds, etc.
Skilled nursing is ideal for those who need short-term medical help, while assisted living is perfect for those who want to be part of a community long-term. Those who live in an assisted living community usually can enjoy life as they normally would but still have access to help when they have a particular challenge.
To figure out which would be best for you based on length of stay, you’ll want to consider your current health needs.
The settings between skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities are very different. With the former, you’ll find a more medical setting — something that reminds you of a traditional nursing home or even medical center. With the latter, you’ll get a setting that is reminiscent of an apartment building, cottages, or even small houses.
Even though the setting of a skilled nursing facility may not sound ideal, you shouldn’t be totally discouraged from the option. Many facilities are now getting upgraded so that they feel more home-like and less intimidating, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable as they receive medical help.
The amount of independence people get from skilled nursing is significantly different from what they receive from assisted living. Because skilled nursing focuses on helping people after hospitalizations or decline of health, the amount of independence you can expect is much lower and individuals will be monitored around the clock.
You can expect to have much more independence with assisted living because these communities aren’t totally focused on medical needs. With assisted living, individuals will usually have all the freedom they want and can get help when needed.
Because selecting the right care environment for yourself isn’t easy, you’ll want to take some time to really understand your choices. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice, or to explore different facilities and settings. You’ll thank yourself later when you’ve realized that you’ve made the perfect choice for you and your care needs!
Choosing the Right Long Term Care Facility
Long-term care is an important topic for people to learn about sooner rather than later. At some point, they or a loved one will probably need it. And, when this happens, they’ll have to play catch up … and there’s a lot of information to digest.
Our nation is aging. The Census Bureau predicts that by 2034, adults 65+ will outnumber children 18 and under. Today there are many care options available to older adults depending on where they are in terms of independence and level of care needed. One person may still live in their home and only need help with light housekeeping and medication reminders, whereas another may live in an assisted living community and need help bathing, dressing and preparing meals. Fortunately, there are many care options available today to help older adults age happily in place and to live life to the fullest regardless of limitations.
Depending on your care needs, a caregiver can be an almost constant presence in your home. Even when they aren’t with you physically, they might call, email, or text you to check in. Because of this, you’ll want to have great communication with your caregiver and connect with them. Below are some ways that you can improve communication and strengthen your bond with your caregiver.