Home Care Vs Other Senior Care Options

As you age, you might begin to notice the need for more support in different areas of your life. Maybe it’s getting difficult to carry laundry baskets up the stairs. Maybe you don’t always remember to take your blood pressure medicine. Or, it could be that your health is just starting to get a little more…challenging. No matter where you are in your life’s journey, sooner or later, the need for help may very well become necessary. Whether you get assistance from family or outside resources, it helps to first know some options. And, for seniors who want to age in place, home care is most appealing. But, how does it measure up next to other popular care options like assisted living or nursing homes?

Let’s compare.

What is home care?

Home care is an essential part of aging in place. It includes a wide range of services and supports with one common purpose: providing ways to maintain independence, stay safe, and remain in your own home longer. Depending on a person’s needs, home care may be provided by a family member or a professional. Some services for hire will include everything from companionship to personal care assistance and skilled nursing. Others will specialize in one area like occupational therapy or housekeeping. Before choosing the option that’s right for you, personal needs must be assessed, including family as much as possible in the planning process. It’s also worth considering hiring a certified aging-in-place specialist (CAPS) who can coordinate all of this for you.

What are other senior care options?

Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities are for seniors who lead active lifestyles but may need help with activities of daily living (ADL) or light to moderate medical care. Living space can include apartments, condos, or rooms within a healthcare campus. Those who reside in assisted living don’t usually require 24-hour care but may have memory-related or physical difficulties. Some residents have a hard time with motor skills or balance, while others might be minorly impaired in other ways.

General services you can expect from assisted living are meal prep, ADL help, some medical care, social and wellness activities, and even housekeeping. Many facilities also offer a variety of amenities such as on-site salons and transportation.

Nursing Home

A nursing home is for seniors who don’t need a hospital but require a higher level of care or medical attention than can be provided elsewhere. Nursing homes provide structured schedules, meals, and 24-hour medical care.

Nursing home residents receive full-time health and personal care assistance, as well as social and recreational activities. Common types of care you should expect are skilled nursing, custodial care, medication management, and therapies. Living space, dining areas, and activity centers are usually shared.

Let’s compare care and cost.

Here’s a simple side-by-side overview of care and costs to expect for each option.

When it’s time to find home care…

90% of seniors WANT to age at home.

If you’re looking for home care, then start here!

Need help planning for retirement? Then visit Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch.