ASSISTED LIVING VS LONG TERM CARE
The Difference Between a Retirement Home and a Long Term Care Home
There are a lot of differences between an Assisted living home and a long term care home. Even though they are both places where seniors can live, the cost, services, and moving in process are very different.
Here is a clear understanding of what these residences are and how they are different.
What is an Assisted Living Home?
An Assisted Living home, also called a retirement residence or senior home, is where a community of seniors live. Focused around flexibility and independence, these types of retirement residences offer a lot of choice. Residents can choose to enjoy a fully independent lifestyle or have some care and personalized services. You might be asking “How old do you have to be to live in an Assisted Living home?” and you will be pleased to know that there are residents from a range of ages, from their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s to centenarians. In an Assisted Living home, you have your own room, create your own schedule, and can come and go as you please. You choose how you like to spend your time – whether it’s on your own or with the people who live in the community, taking part in social activities, exercise classes, or outings. It’s all up to you.
What is a Long Term Care Home or Nursing Home?
A long term care home, also sometimes called a nursing home, is centered around 24/7 supervised care. Those who qualify for long term care are seniors who need a high level of care, require continuous supervision, or can no longer take care of themselves independently (e.g. eating, bathing, dressing). Long term care homes will have 24-hour monitoring, and round-the-clock nursing and staff within the residence. Meals are served within a central area and prepared with dietary restrictions and requirements in mind. In selecting a long term care home there are some requirements such as a referral from a physician or agency.
Differences Between a Retirement Home and Long Term Care Home
Cost, types of services, and the overall process is different when it comes to moving into an Assisted Living home or long term care or nursing home. Here are some of the differences between the two, so you can determine which option makes sense for you or your loved one.
Pionner's Haven provides personalized care and services, no matter the resident.
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Assisted Living Home Costs
The individual or family member is responsible for the total monthly cost of living in a retirement home.
Long Term Care or Nursing Home Costs
The individual or family member is responsible for a partial amount of the total cost. The other portion is covered through the government.
Assisted Living Home Services
Retirement home services can include:
- Full-service dining
- Recreation and activity programs
- Social and spiritual programs
- Modern amenities ( Bi-Weekly hair salon services, library etc.)
- Parking and community access transportation for outings
- Care services (access to nursing and homecare services, Medication administration)
- 24 hour staffing
- Emergency Call System
Long Term Care Home Services
Long term care services are heavily centered around health care. These types of services can include:
- Medication administration
- Meals service and special diets
- 24 Hour Nursing Care
- 24 Hour Staff
- Injury Reduction
- Falls Management
- Emergency Call System
- Physiotherapy
- Assistance with essential activities of daily living
- Social, recreational and spiritual programs
Choosing Pioneer's Haven Assisted Living Home
If you’re considering moving into an Assisted Living residence or have a loved one who may be, you can arrange a visit to tour our home, at any time. Our doors are always open.
Choosing a Long Term Care Home
In order to move into a nursing home or long term care home, there are some requirements such as a referral from a physician or agency. Once a referral is completed, the agency will provide some choices based on the level of care needed, and will notify you when a spot becomes available.
Download a tour checklist:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DTehE78VXW_uU3ScSH-Puejw6Yd-6KZ3/view?usp=sharing
Have Questions? Feel free to contact us and ask any questions you might have. The Manager Krystal is always willing/able to help and provide you with any information you need.
