Exploring Assisted Living Versus in-Home Senior Healthcare

7 out of 10 people require long-term assisted living care in their lifetime. If you or a loved one is thinking about elderly care, then you may be considering assisted living versus in-home senior healthcare. Each option presents its own set of advantages and considerations, making it crucial to weigh the factors that matter most to you or your loved one.

Let's dive into the differences between assisted living and in-home care, exploring the unique benefits and challenges of each.

Whether you are seeking a supportive community environment or prefer the comfort of home-based senior health accommodations, understanding each option will empower you to make an informed decision that best fits your needs and preferences.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a residential housing option that is designed to provide older adults with personalized assistance and support in a comfortable environment. Residents living in these communities often maintain a level of independence while receiving help with everyday tasks such as:

Bathing
Dressing
Medication management
meal preparation

These communities also offer services and amenities including housekeeping, transportation, social activities, and 24-hour supervision.

According to the Ohio Department of Health, all residential care facilities, including assisted living communities, receive at least one unannounced inspection or survey during a 9 to 15-month period. During these inspections, the state will ensure that the community is following all of the proper laws and rules.

Advantages of Assisted Living

There are several benefits of assisted living communities. Here are just a few:

Access to 24-hour supervision and emergency response services
Peace of mind for families knowing that their loved ones are taken care of
Opportunities to socialize through organized activities and events
Healthy meals prepared for you
Transportation services for medical appointments and errands
Safety features like emergency call systems and secure entry
Onsite amenities like fitness centers, libraries, and outdoor spaces
Help with medication management and healthcare coordination

Disadvantages of Assisted Living

While assisted living communities offer many benefits, it is essential to consider potential drawbacks before making a decision. Understanding the disadvantages can help individuals and families make informed choices about elderly care options:

Some residents may feel a loss of independence as they receive assistance with daily tasks
Assisted living can be expensive
Living in a communal setting means residents may have limited privacy
Transitioning to assisted living may take time to adapt to a new environment and routine
Residents may have limited control over their schedule, meals, and activities
Moving to assisted living means leaving behind familiar surroundings, which can be difficult for some individuals

In-Home Senior Healthcare

In-home senior healthcare is a personalized care option that is made to support older adults in the comfort of their own homes. In-home caregivers can assist with the same tasks as assisted living staff can, however, everything is done in the privacy of the resident's home.

In addition to in-home caregivers, you can organize other services like skilled nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy, to visit residents in their homes.

In Ohio, a home health nurse must "possess a current, valid license with the Ohio Board of Nursing and must be employed or contracted by an MCHHA that has an active Medicaid provider agreement."

Advantages of In-Home Care

In-home care offers seniors the opportunity to receive personalized care while remaining in their own homes. This type of care provides several benefits for seniors:

In-home care allows seniors to maintain their independence and autonomy
Remaining in the familiar environment of home can contribute to the overall well-being of seniors
In-home caregivers provide personalized assistance that is tailored to meet the specific needs of each client
Seniors receive individualized attention and support from a dedicated caregiver
In-home care services can be customized to accommodate the routines of the senior
A good option for seniors in respite care who may not need long-term help
Avoiding communal living environments can lower the risk of exposure to illness and infection

Disadvantages of In-Home Care

In-home care also comes with a few disadvantages to consider:

Seniors receiving in-home care may experience limited social interaction
In-home care often relies on family members or loved ones to coordinate and manage care, which can be stressful for family caregivers
Without regular monitoring and supervision, there may be challenges in the quality and consistency of care provided by in-home caregivers
Seniors with complex medical needs may require specialized care that is not always available in the home setting
In-home care can pose safety risks such as falls or accidents
Seniors may need help with household tasks and maintenance, which could add to the overall cost of the care services.

Comparing Costs

When deciding between the two options, it is essential to weigh the costs associated with both in-home care and assisted living communities. Assisted living communities typically charge monthly fees that cover room and board, as well as services such as housekeeping and personal care assistance.

These costs can vary depending on factors like the level of care needed, amenities offered, and the size of the resident's unit. According to Genworth, it costs around $5,294 per month to live in an assisted living community in Ohio.

In contrast, in-home care services are typically billed on an hourly basis, with rates varying depending on the level of care required. While in-home care may initially seem more affordable, especially for those with lower care needs, costs can add up over time, particularly if the care needs increase.

Additionally, seniors may need to cover additional expenses such as home modifications or medical equipment to support aging in place. The overage cost of living for a home health aide in Ohio is about $6,101 per month.

Assisted Living Versus In-Home Senior Healthcare: Which Option Is Right for You?

Now that you know everything about assisted living versus in-home senior care, which option is best for you?

If you are interested in assisted living, then get in touch with the team here at Cardinal Place. We have a selection of beautiful studio and one-bedroom apartments with luxurious amenities.

To learn more about our services, contact us through our online form.