Main Differences between Home Care & Assisted Living

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No matter how independent seniors would like to be, they may need to consider professional assistance at some point. For older adults who are living with physical disabilities or cognitive decline, two of the most popular options are in-home care and assisted living at a senior facility. Here’s a closer look at some of the key differences between home care and assisted living.

The Basics of In-Home Care

With in-home care, a trained caregiver will visit one or more times a week. During these visits, the caregiver can run errands, perform light housework, socialize with your loved one, and assist with a wide array of other tasks. In-home caregiving services are highly personalized so seniors only receive the help they need. Some seniors only hire caregivers for a few hours a week, while others spend almost all their time with caregivers.

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

A Closer Look at Assisted Living Facilities

An assisted living facility is a community specifically designed for older adults. Most assisted living facilities offer basic services, such as meal plans, daily activities for the residents, and 24/7 access to health aides. Some assisted living facilities offer luxurious condos that have all the amenities seniors need, while others provide smaller rooms in communal buildings that resemble dormitories.

Cost Considerations

The total costs for home care and assisted living options depend on a wide array of variables. Having a part-time caregiver spend a few hours at your loved one’s home every week will typically be much more affordable than renting a private condo in an assisted living facility. Seniors who would like to age in place also need to consider other monthly expenses, such as home maintenance, groceries, and utilities. As a general rule, assisted living facilities bundle all those expenses into a single monthly or yearly payment.

Independence & Aging in Place

Most older adults would like to spend at least a few years aging in the comfort of home. As long as they’re relatively healthy and not experiencing any cognitive issues, living at home is usually a great option. Aging in place is even more practical if a loved one, such as a spouse or adult child, can take on some of the responsibilities around the home.

Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Opelika, AL, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.

Making the Right Choice

There’s no single choice that works for every senior, and older adults who are losing some of their physical and cognitive abilities need to consider all their options. If you have an aging loved one who needs some assistance, bring this conversation up as early as possible. Before making a decision, head to a few local assisted living facilities and meet with professional caregivers so you have a better idea of what to expect in the coming years.

Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading Opelika senior care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call at (334) 744-7100 today.

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