Comparison Between An Assisted Living Home And A Nursing Home

Assisted living homes and nursing homes are health care facilities that provide care which is greater than the care that can happen at home, but less than the kind of care that you can only get in a hospital. The general progression is: home care, assisted living care, then nursing home care. Acute care is generally given in a hospital setting.

Assisted Living

As a general matter, assisted living facilities provide a range of services which generally include:

• Housing
• Assistance with daily activities such as going to the toilet or dressing
• Meals
• Housekeeping
• Exercise programs
• Entertaining activities
• 24 hour emergency services

There are a variety of assisted living arrangements. (For more information, see the document in "To Learn More.")

Assisted living facilities do not provide skilled nursing care.

Nursing Home

In addition to the services provided in an Assisted Living facility, Nursing Homes also provide skilled nursing care and supervision on a 24/7 basis.

Combination Facilities

There are facilities that provide both assisted living and nursing home care so a person can start in an assisted living facility and move into the nursing part if and when needed.

NOTE: If there is a question concerning which facility is best for you, speak with your doctor, a private care manager or social worker.