What is the Difference Between a Nursing Home and an Assisted Living Facility?
Anyone with a sick loved one might be easily confused on whether their loved one needs a nursing home or an assisted living facility. It is very important to note that all nursing homes are regulated by Medicare and registered nurses are available for assistance at all hours of the day and night. In contrast, only a little over half of all assisted living facilities provide nursing assistance from registered nurses. There are also nursing homes with short stay options. The choice of where to place your loved one in need of help really depends on the factors of cost, if you prefer the heavy regulations placed on nursing homes or not, and how much help and care your loved one needs throughout the day.
Key Takeaways:
- Assisted living facilities traditionally offer full time supervision, daily meals, and various other services
- More than half of all assisted living facilities offer services rendered by professionally licensed nurses and/or practitioners
- Licensing for these facilities is provided on a state-by-state basis so there are no national or federal guidelines in place
“Families who are searching for the optimal place for their loved ones with dementia now have an almost overwhelming set of choices.”
