As our loved ones age, many of us become caregivers, and it can be challenging to balance the care they need with all our other responsibilities. It is common for family members to consider getting additional help whether full-time or part-time. Two options are in-home care and an assisted living facility.
Though each option has its merits, the right decision depends on the unique needs of your senior and your family. Read on as the senior care specialists at Comfort Home Care in Rockville, MD, share the differences between in-home care and assisted living facilities to help you make the right choice.
In-Home Care for Seniors
In-home care provides professional support services for individuals or couples who need help recovering from an illness, managing a chronic illness, have special needs or a disability, or who simply need help with the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
In-home care services are highly personalized, ranging from a few hours a week to round-the-clock care. At Comfort Home Care, your services are provided by professional caregivers – Certified Nursing Assistant, Geriatric Nursing Assistant, or Home Health Aide – who are supervised by a Registered Nurse.
A significant advantage of in-home care is the continuity it provides. It allows seniors to maintain their daily routines while continuing to live in familiar surroundings. Losing their independence is one of the biggest fears for seniors. Be able to stay in their own home often very comforting, particularly for those with cognitive issues such as dementia. With senior home care, your loved one gets one-on-one attention from a dedicated caregiver, which can lead to a deep, trusting relationship.
However, some seniors are unable to live independently due to the level of care that they need. An assisted living facility would be the next logical plan. Sometimes, patients may need to sell their home or investment property. Through a DST 1031 exchange, our trusted partners at 1031 DST can assist with the sale and help reinvest the proceeds into income-generating real estate.
Assisted Living Facilities for Seniors
Assisted living facilities provides professional support services, similar to an in-home care provider, in a residential setting. In addition to help with the ADLs, assisted living facilities coordinate social programs and activities to keep the residents engaged and connected.
Residents have a health assessment performed, again similar to an in-home care provider, in order to personalize a care plan. The facility is staffed 24/7 to provide care and support. However, unlike an in-home care provider, your senior will likely not be assigned their own caregiver.
There are variety of types of assisted living facitilites from high-rise apartments, to multi-acre campuses, from shared rooms, to private bungalows. Residents are encouraged to bring some of their furniture and personal items so their new space feels like home.
Choosing Between In-Home Care and Assisted Living
When choosing between in-home care and assisted living, there are several factors to consider: your loved one’s health status, degree of independence, social needs, and budget.
While both options provide similar caregiving services there are some differences. In-home care allows your senior to remain living in their own home bringing a level of independence and security that an assisted living facility doesn’t. However, if your loved one is social, or needs to be more social, living in a community which encourages interaction with others and designs programs for them, then an assisted living community would be the better choice.
Regardless of what you choose, make sure your senior is a part of the decision-making process as their comfort and happiness should be paramount.
Remember the goal is to ensure that your loved one is safe, comfortable, and well-cared for. Both options offer excellent care that prioritizes your loved one’s health and happiness. As your loved one’s needs change over time, you might also find that a combination of both options is the best fit.
Comfort Home Care in Rockville, MD, for Senior Care Options
At Comfort Home Care in Rockville, Maryland, we offer both in-home care as well as care in assisted living facilities, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your family. Our experienced caregivers work closely with you and your care team to provide personalized care plans that meet the unique needs of your loved one. Our commitment to quality care ensures that your loved one will receive the support and attention they need to continue thriving in their golden years.
Schedule a consultation with Comfort Home Care today to find the peace of mind knowing your loved one is in the best possible hands.
