Are you in the process of helping an aging parent or family member transition to a new living arrangement? According to LongtermCare.gov, many aging individuals (those 65 years or older) have a 70 percent chance of needing some form of long-term care and support in their remaining years. Choosing the best services for your loved one can often feel overwhelming or tedious. However, taking time to learn about home care and assisted living will allow you to make the best decision for your loved one’s medical needs and preferences.
As you explore different care options, here are some of the main differentiating factors between home care and assisted living:
Level of family involvement
One of the primary differences between home care and assisted living is the level of involvement required for each option. At assisted living facilities, families are typically not involved in planning their loved one’s care, such as hiring and scheduling caregivers. With home care, families can be directly involved in managing their loved one’s caregiving services, including choosing a provider, scheduling, and monitoring care. Home care may be the best fit if you wish to play an active role in the care management process.
One-on-one care vs. generalized care
One of the most appealing benefits of home care services is that it provides fully customizable care. While you can increase the level of care at an assisted living facility, home care allows for a completely tailored, one-on-one experience. For instance, you may choose to have your caregiver assist your loved one primarily with attending medical appointments or social outings. Furthermore, the home care model allows individuals to receive services right within the comforts of their homes as they age. At the same time, assisted living facilities require individuals to adapt to entirely new surroundings.
Socialization
Both living options offer individuals socialization opportunities but in varying ways. While assisted living provides opportunities to socialize with other residents, home care allows individuals to interact regularly with one caregiver assigned to meet their needs regularly. Often, this can result in a very emotionally supportive relationship for the client, as they develop a strong camaraderie with their caregiver. Additionally, caregivers frequently engage in social activities with their clients, such as partaking in hobbies or attending community events.
Suppose you’re in the initial stages of reviewing care options. In that case, it’s important to understand the differences between home care and assisted living so you can make the best decision for your loved one and your family.
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