What Are Nursing and Residential Care Facilities, and Why Are They Important
Knowing the difference between nursing homes and residential care facilities is an important thing to understand. After all, moments with our loved ones are fleeting, and life is full of difficulties. The best we can do is cherish the time we have and make the most of it. Parents, children, siblings, and spouses with limited physical or mental capacities deserve the most comfort we can provide. Nursing and residential senior care facilities can increase their quality of life and allow family members to be at ease knowing their loved one is cared for. There are many options and being well informed is the key to making the best possible choice for the loved ones in our lives.
Nursing homes
Often times, when people think of assisted living, nursing homes are one of the first options that pop into their heads. Nursing homes are the most extensive care option. They offer 24-hour supervision, a variety of medical services, and meal prep. Nursing homes may also provide rehabilitation services like physical or speech therapy. Those who have chronic conditions, such as dementia, can live in nursing homes and receive the medical help they need.
Assisted Living
Care via assisted living for elderly parents is less extensive than that of a nursing home. This provides options for those who do not require all the services a nursing home may provide. Individuals in assisted living do not require as extensive or complex medical care as those who live in nursing homes. Those in assisted living still receive supervision and are generally more focused on custodial care. The senior may have memory loss and may not be safe living alone, or may have mobility issues and need help to move from their bed to a chair. In assisted living, the person is more likely to live in an individual suite or apartment whereas in a nursing home, they may share a room with another person.
Home and Care facilities
These are also known as group homes. Group homes house fewer individuals, 20 or less, and do not provide medical services. They help with daily tasks like medication management, bathing, and dressing.
Live-in Home Care
In-home care provides supervision and care while the individual remains in the comfort and privacy of their own home. In home care does not provide medical services or therapy but provides help with daily tasks. This individual may need help with mobility, meals, grocery shopping, or dressing. A caretaker is provided and helps with these needs. Live in home care is the best option for those who need help with daily tasks, but would like to stay in their homes.
There are many options available to those we care for. When researching the possibilities, it is important to remember the needs of the individual and their desires. The right choice provides peace of mind for the family and comfort and a higher quality of life for the senior.
