Home Care vs. Long Term Care Facility

Seniors who need extra help with day-to-day tasks typically have two options: they can hire a personal care aide to help them remain in their own home, or they can transition to a long-term care community designed for older adults. Today, there are many options for seniors who want to maintain their freedom and independence while accessing medical care, physical therapy and other services as needed. Some things for families to consider include safety, comfort and cost. Additionally, the feasibility of these options depends on the level of care that’s needed.

Home care is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the medical industry, and it’s easy to see why. According to surveys, nearly 80% of older adults say that they want to remain in their own homes. Home care agencies can make this possible. Plus, many in-home medical services are covered by Medicare, which is a bonus for those over 65. Disabled adults and seniors who have limited resources may be eligible for financial assistance through Medicaid.

Another advantage of home care is that it’s flexible. Seniors can request as much or as little assistance as they need. Home care aides are typically booked in four-hour increments, but it’s up to you if you want to have someone come every day, once a week or several times a week. Home care agencies can provide extended care, but this can become very expensive. Attendants can help with personal needs, such as bathing, dressing and grooming. They also prepare meals, pick up prescriptions and do light cleaning. Agencies that employ licensed or registered nurses may provide limited medical care, including help with IV medications, breathing treatments and wound care.

According to national data from the Genworth Cost of Care Survey, the average cost of in-home care is $26 per hour or $4,957 per month. Home health care services, which include more extensive medical support, average around $5,148 per month, or $27 per hour. Seniors must also factor in the cost of basic living expenses and home maintenance. In some cases, it may be more affordable and convenient for seniors to transition to a long-term care community. Home care can also be used to supplement the support that’s provided by a spouse or relatives. However, at some point, this level of assistance may not be enough, and a move to a long-term care facility may be the best decision.

There are several types of long-term care facilities depending on your needs. Licensing options vary by state, but here are a few of the most common types of care.

• Assisted Living: These residential communities provide housing, meals and social activities for older adults. Residents receive assistance with medications and activities of daily living (ADLs). However, one-on-one care is typically limited to just a few hours a day.
• Memory Care: Certain assisted living facilities are licensed to care for patients with Alzheimer’s, dementia and advanced cognitive needs. These facilities have additional security features, specially trained staff and specialized activity programs.
• Skilled Nursing: Nursing homes provide 24-hour, physician-supervised medical care. These facilities are best for adults who are very frail or need skilled therapy and rehabilitation.
• Continuing-Care Retirement Community: Many long-term care facilities offer multiple levels of care to accommodate a variety of needs. This also allows seniors and couples to stay in the same community even if their health changes.

Long-term care facilities range from luxurious villas with resort-like amenities to clinical facilities with hospital-quality medical equipment. Facilities are designed to meet residents’ daily needs, which vary according to the level of care provided. Each resident is assessed as part of the admissions process, and their plan of care is updated regularly. Assisted living residents typically receive three daily meals plus snacks, but they usually have access to their own kitchen or kitchenette. Memory care units and nursing homes don’t offer this amenity, but they still offer community meals and social activities.