As your loved ones start to age, you might be considering what kind of care they will need. One option would be to stay with them and provide the care they need, but this is not always possible.
If you live far away, have your own family to take care of, or simply cannot be there as much as they need, then you must consider other options. This post will compare and contrast nursing homes and assisted living facilities so you can make an informed decision about the best place for your loved one.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are for people who need constant medical care and supervision. This could be because they have chronic illnesses, are recovering from surgery, or have dementia.
Nursing homes have nurses on staff 24 hours a day to provide care and assistance and doctors who make regular visits. The average stay in a nursing home is around three years, but some people live there for much longer.
The main downside of nursing homes is that they can be costly, especially if you opt for a private room or special care. They can also be depressing places, as most residents are elderly and often in poor health. There have been reports of nursing homes mistreating their residents, so it is essential to do your research before choosing one.
If you have fears about the treatment, your loved one is receiving it in a nursing home. You can contact your state’s long-term care ombudsman. You can also find an attorney on nursinghomelawyerpa to discuss your legal options. Not only will this help you get the compensation you deserve, but it will also help to ensure that the nursing home is held accountable for its actions.
Assisted Living Facilities
You may want to consider an assisted living facility if your loved one needs help with activities of daily living but does not require constant medical care. Assisted living facilities provide housing, meals, and personal care assistance to their residents.
They also have staff on hand around the clock to provide assistance and support. Most assisted living facilities have a minimum age requirement of 55, although some will accept younger residents.
While assisted living facilities are not as expensive as nursing homes, they can still be pricey. One con of assisted living facilities is that they do not always provide the level of care that a senior needs. If your loved one’s health deteriorates, they may need to be moved to a nursing home.
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Assisted living facilities also have a higher staff turnover rate than nursing homes, which can lead to inconsistency in the level of care your loved one receives. Multiple complaints have come up regarding abuse and neglect in assisted living facilities, so do your due diligence before choosing one.
Which Option Is the Best for Your Vulnerable Relative?
The best option for your vulnerable relative will depend on their specific needs. A nursing home is likely the best option if they require constant medical care and supervision.
It is important to do your research before choosing a nursing home, as some facilities have reported abuse and mistreatment. If your loved one does not need medical care at all times but needs assistance with daily living activities, then an assisted living facility might be a better option.
Other factors such as cost, location, and the type of care an elderly loved one needs will also play a role in deciding which option is best. Ultimately, you want to choose the option that will provide the best care for your loved one and give you peace of mind.
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The best way to do this is to consult their doctor or a geriatric care manager to get professional advice. The decision about whether to put a loved one in a nursing home or an assisted living facility is a difficult one. It is important to consider all the factors involved before deciding.
