Is staying at home you or your loved one’s choice, as you reach the golden years? Whether you are planning for the future or have an immediate need, there numerous options to research. It’s challenging to determine the options that best fit your needs.
Like many important decisions, various factors influence the best choice. The first consideration for most people is cost. But defining a cost starts with identifying the services you require.
And that’s a key benefit of our client assessment.
Do you need help cooking, cleaning, keeping up with the house and running errands? Or is more extensive housework, personal hygiene assistance and medication reminders important?
Use this personal care services information to make a list of your needs.
Once you have defined your needs, use the following information to help cut through the complexity and confusion of in-home care costs vs. assisted living options. Starting with an overview of each major care option and followed by a side-to-side comparison of services and costs, the information will help you understand and assess the best and most cost effective options for you.
Home Care Costs
Home Care typically includes licensed and unlicensed non-medical personnel who assist seniors with their in home care needs. The home care workers assist individuals with basic needs such as cooking, cleaning and other household activities including meal preparation. They also support a greater level of assistance like dressing, bathing and running errands. This kind of interaction often allows a senior to stay in their home instead of care facility.
The flexibility of in-home care makes it a viable option for various levels of need. It allows you to get temporary help when returning from a hospital or rehab stay or for a few hours a week, if you require some additional support. And, if the preference is to stay in your own home, even if greater assistance is required, home care is a viable option.
Residential Care
Residential care facilities offer housing for individuals who need assistance with personal care or medical needs. These facilities usually feature studio or one-bedroom apartments, without kitchens or in-apartment cooking options. They have private bathrooms and storage units. Occasionally, these facilities offer shared rooms. Additional services include meals, social activities, laundry, and housekeeping services.
A residential care facility is typically a permanent move away from your home. It may be a good option when help is required for daily activities but constant supervision or care isn’t necessary. A residential facility provides greater autonomy than a nursing home but less than in-home care. In-home care costs are lower than a residential facility but assisted living costs are greater.
Assisted Living Care
Assisted living facilities are geared for seniors that require a greater level of care but don’t require the medical and nursing attention that a nursing home provides. In fact, although it may be a stand alone operation, assisted living facilities are typically part of a retirement community that may also include senior housing and nursing homes. Services include toileting, bathing, dressing and grooming. In addition, food is available in dining areas but kitchens and other personal cooking options are not.
Care Services Comparison
| Services | In-Home Care | Residential Care | Assisted Living Care |
| Hourly, Temporary & Respite Care | Yes | No | No |
| One Hour Bath Visit | Yes | No | No |
| Personal Care Services Including Cooking, Cleaning & Meal Preparation | Yes | Maybe | Yes |
| Extended Personal Care Services Including Toileting, Bathing & Dressing | Yes | Maybe | Yes |
| Live-In Care | Yes | Yes | Yes |