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The Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

You might have noticed recent changes in your loved one’s behavior.

There may be a problem with their self-care, forgetfulness about taking their medication, or an inability to handle household tasks. Assisted living may be a good option at this point.

But just what sort of assistance do they need? How different is one level of care from the next? And what qualifies older adults for more specialized types of care?

As you research your options, these questions and more will make you wonder about the differences between terms like “nursing care,” “assisted living” and “nursing home.” Read on to find out what you can expect to be included in these levels of care.

What Is Assisted Living?

At The Estates at Carpenters, assisted living at the Villa supports older adults requiring assistance in the activities of daily living who might otherwise be independent. Assisted living communities provide individualized care plans that are designed to suit each resident’s needs. Those varying needs include: 

  • Assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs), which may include bathing, dressing, toileting, cooking, cleaning, feeding, ambulating and transferring)
  • Medication management and scheduling
  • Health care coordination
  • Housekeeping services
  • Medical care at an on-site wellness center
  • Restaurant-style dining

Should residents need a more specialized level of support, we offer skilled nursing care at the Manor. This is a full range of skilled services for both short- and long-term care, including full-time assistance with the ADLs.

When Is It Time for Assisted Living?

There are a few signs your loved one might be ready to move to assisted living. They are:

  • They struggle to perform ADLs independently
  • You’re worried they may experience a fall
  • They develop isolation-related depression or are feeling lonely
  • Their personal hygiene declines

What Is a Nursing Home?

Skilled nursing care, sometimes also called a “nursing home,” provides 24/7 care from medical professionals along with support for ADLs. 

Due to the fact that they offer the most comprehensive care outside a hospital setting, these are more clinical environments than you might find in assisted living. Typical skilled nursing care consists of:

  • Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy 
  • Custodial care that is similar to what you receive in assisted living
  • Assistance with mobility and transportation throughout the facility
  • Palliative and preventive care
  • Emergency services

Skilled nursing care offers short-term care for patients and long-term care for residents. Some patients stay to recover after a hospital visit, while others might need long-term care for chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s disease or emphysema. 

To help residents enjoy an improved quality of life, the best nursing homes provide skilled nursing care along with a wide range of recreational and social activities tailored to residents’ unique needs.

Welcome to Uncompromised Senior Living.
If you think your loved one could benefit from assisted living or skilled nursing at a senior living community, look no further than The Estates at Carpenters, situated in beautiful Lakeland, FL. We offer a wide range of engaging activities and a full continuum of care. All our efforts are focused on helping residents achieve higher levels of health, happiness and confidence.

Learn more about our assisted living and skilled nursing options today.