What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Home Care?

May 29, 2023 / Assisted Living, Home Care

If you or a loved-one has begun to notice a decline in the ability to complete everyday tasks, such as preparing meals, showering, and other personal care tasks, it may be time to consider long-term elder care options. Two very common options are assisted living facilities and in-home care. While these options are similar in their offerings, there may be one that works better for your situation. The Senior Care AZ team is breaking down assisted living facilities and home care today: what is the difference between the two, the pros and cons of both types of elder-care and how to decide which may be right for you.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities are residential communities where aging seniors can live in an apartment or studio independently within a community, having access to the care and benefits a community offers. Assisted living generally does not offer 24/7 skilled nursing care, but it will provide assistance with personal care tasks such as grooming and housekeeping, as well as medication management as needed. Assisted living facilities often feel similar to a retirement community, with an added level of care. There are often socialization and community building activities, as well as amenities focusing on physical health, intellectual stimulation, and social connections. Assisted living communities will have programs, events, and outings aiming to slow physical and cognitive decline while keeping residents happy and safe.

Assisted Living Pros

For active seniors who are in good health and still want to maintain a level of independence, an assisted living facility is an excellent option that will allow them to retain their autonomy while also building a community and having ample socialization opportunities. For seniors who enjoy outings, events, and social gatherings but need an increased level of care with small tasks, it is a great place to reside. They will have access to plenty of facilities and events to stimulate their minds while having private apartment style living to keep their independence up.

Cons of Assisted Living

One of the biggest cons of assisted living that many seniors have a difficult time with is the transition from living at home to living in a facility. While they have their own apartment and private living space, it will not be the same as living in their own home, and some individuals struggle with this difficult transition.

What Is Home Care?

Home care is an in-home support option for seniors who need an increased level of care and do not want to transition to living in a facility or community. Home care offers companionship, transportation, and daily assistance with tasks for seniors living at home. It can be described as in-home assisted living, with an individual providing aid within the home, such as housekeeping, personal care, grooming, cooking, and medication management. The level of care can be customized depending on the individual’s needs.

Home Care Pros

Home care is excellent because it allows seniors to remain in their homes and avoid the difficult transition to a facility or community. It can also provide a personalized level of care and companionship since one person will be caring for the individual and will be able to get to know and understand their routine and their needs.

Cons of Home Care

For some seniors, home care may not provide enough socialization and activity, especially compared to the ample community events and outings available at assisted living facilities. The quality of home care may also vary based on the provider or service and may be more expensive than other forms of long term care, especially when 24/7 care is needed.

Cost of Assisted Living vs. In-Home Care

The costs of in-home care can be much more variable than the costs of assisted living or other elder care options due to the different needs of individuals and the customization options provided.

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

In 2020, the national median annual cost for an assisted living facility was $51,600 per year. These costs are typically paid for out of pocket or through long-term care insurance that has been paid-into over the course of many years.

How Much Does Home Care Cost?

The median cost of home care is just $24 per hour. If you only need care for a few hours a week, this can be a great, affordable option. If you need 24/7 care, the costs can add up to almost $200,000 per year, depending on your location and needs.

Assisted Living vs. Home Care: Choosing What’s Right for You

Making the decision to move you or your loved-one into a long-term care facility or hire a home care aide is a big and potentially costly decision. It is worth evaluating all the factors and needs before making the final choice. The team at Senior Care AZ can work with you to determine the best option for you or your loved ones and provide Arizona senior placement services or guidance on in-home care options when you decide to take the next step.