4 Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
Nearly 90% of older adults want to age in place. And while it might be the majority of people’s first choice, that doesn’t mean it’s automatically the best one. Some older adults need too much care and support to justify aging in place. And that’s perfectly okay! For the seniors who fall into that category, there are two well-known care options: assisted living and nursing homes. You probably already know that assisted living facilities and nursing homes are different. But what type of care do each of these facilities provide? And how can you decide which one is best for you?
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a senior living facility for older adults who need support and assistance. Contrary to popular belief, these facilities come in all shapes and sizes. Some are small and cozy, tucked into a neighborhood so inconspicuously that you might mistake them for somebody’s home! These smaller, more private facilities might have limited availability, but they usually offer the same care and activities as their larger counterparts. Other assisted living facilities are larger and might be part of a full-scale retirement community, complete with amenities, senior apartments, and on-site entertainment. Other services typically include home-cooked meals, personal care assistance (like bathing or brushing your hair), and even laundry services. Whether you choose a small assisted living facility or a larger one, you’ll have access to all the services and care you need!
What are nursing homes?
Nursing homes are sometimes called skilled nursing facilities, and there’s a reason for that. While they do offer health and personal care services, their main focus is medical care. According to Medline Plus, some nursing homes are even set up like hospitals! Others might want to put the “home” in “nursing home”, offering the same great care services in a more comfortable, closely-knit environment. Regardless of the size or feel of the nursing home, the staff usually includes nurses, nursing aides, doctors, and therapists. Some people might not realize that nursing homes aren’t just for older adults. They’re for anyone who needs 24-hour care!
What are the differences between assisted living facilities and nursing homes?
1. Level of care
Assisted living facilities help residents with the activities of daily living (ADLs). They can help you bathe, brush your hair, and even dress yourself. And while they offer some health care services, they’re not the best fit for anyone with serious health issues. Speaking of which, nursing homes focus more on medical care, which is why they generally staff speech therapists, RNs, physicians, and other healthcare providers. They also offer care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! So, if you need round-the-clock care, a nursing home is probably a better fit for you.
Assisted living provides:
- Personal care assistance
- Housekeeping
- Medication management
- Laundry service
- Housekeeping
- Meals
Nursing homes provide:
- Round-the-clock medical care
- Skilled nursing
- Wound care
- IV therapy
- Personal care assistance
- Speech, occupational, and physical therapies
- Respite care
- Nutritional counseling
2. Accommodations
Assisted living and nursing homes might both be senior living facilities focused on caring for their residents, but they’re often set up very differently. For example, assisted living facilities usually have private or shared apartments. You might also be able to choose from different floor plans, such as one-bedroom to studio apartments. They usually also come with basic amenities like bathrooms and kitchenettes. Most facilities even encourage residents to decorate their space, so you can truly make it feel like home! Some assisted living facilities are even pet-friendly!
Meanwhile, nursing homes usually have a more clinical feel. While you might be able to request a private suite, you’ll probably have to share your room with another patient. Your room won’t feel like a cozy apartment, though some nursing homes might let you decorate your room with a few knick-knacks. However, some nursing homes are more like residential care facilities and might let you bring the comforts of home with you!
3. Social opportunities
Assisted living facilities understand that well-being goes beyond physical health. As such, they often have a monthly calendar full of activities. Some have an arts-and-crafts hour. Others have book clubs, workshops, and even educational classes. Some even have on-site ice cream parlors!
Nursing homes generally don’t offer as many activities or social opportunities as assisted living facilities. However, they might have social hours, where you can mingle with other residents and enjoy games or refreshments. During the Christmas season, they sometimes allow carolers to come in and entertain the residents. But in general, residents at nursing homes are usually less independent than seniors in other living facilities.
4. Cost
According to U.S. News & World Report, nursing homes are often double the cost of an assisted living facility. The national median monthly cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home is $9,277 (per CareScout’s Cost of Long Term Care Survey). Meanwhile, the national median monthly cost of a one-bedroom unit in an assisted living facility is only around $5,900. Roxanne Sorensen, an aging life care specialist and owner of Elder Care Solutions of WNY, noted the difference in pay structure between assisted living facilities and nursing homes in the same article by U.S. News & World Report. According to Sorensen, most assisted living facilities offer a fee-for-service structure. This means that the amount you pay is based on how much care you need. Nursing homes, on the other hand, usually offer a flat rate.
Looking for more?
Still need more help? Then click HERE to visit our Assisted Living Blog and HERE to visit our Nursing Home Blog.
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Originally published July 17, 2025
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