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Which Is Best? Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing?

One of the questions most frequently asked by families of potential residents of The Arbors Assisted Living Residential Communities is: How can I tell which is best? Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing?

It’s not really a matter of which is best. What is important, is your loved one’s needs.

How to Determine If Your Parent Needs Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing

If your parent needs a little help remembering to take their medication or does not get around as much as before, they’re a prime candidate for Assisted Living.

Assisted Living communities provide assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs). There are six categories of ADLs—eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence. This is assistance, not actually doing the task. For example, if your parent needs meals prepared and special utensils, that is assistance; feeding someone is not assistance.

The other category is medication management and administration. Many people choose Assisted Living because their parent either forgets to take their medicine, takes too much or does not take their medicine at the correct time. Assisted Living communities make sure your parent takes their medication on time every day to ensure their health.

Skilled nursing communities do everything Assisted Living communities do, as well as medical treatments and 24/7 nursing care.

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Take this quiz to determine if you have a good idea of the differences between Assisted Living (AL) and skilled nursing (SN).

  1. Needs a walker to get around                                                                    AL          SN
  2. Is totally incontinent                                                                                  AL          SN
  3. Uses oxygen                                                                                                  AL          SN
  4. Has an open wound                                                                                     AL          SN
  5. Gets lost easily                                                                                             AL          SN
  6. Engages in behaviors that may pose dangers to themselves or others AL          SN
  7. Frequently becomes ill                                                                                AL          SN
  8. Has few problems communicating                                                            AL          SN
  9. Refuses or fails to follow instructions                                                      AL          SN
  10. Burns food when cooking                                                                           AL          SN

Answers:

  1. Even if your loved one uses a wheelchair, they may qualify for Assisted Living if they can get in and out of the wheelchair with no help.
  2. People who are totally incontinent and unable to change their own pads need the supervision available in skilled nursing to prevent skin breakdown and other illnesses.
  3. As long as someone can handle their own oxygen, they may live in Assisted Living. If they don’t know how to administer oxygen to themselves, they should receive skilled nursing care.
  4. Open wounds should always be treated by nurses because of the danger of infection.
  5. Most Assisted Living communities offer Memory Support for people who are otherwise healthy but experiencing the beginning stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
  6. People who hurt themselves, refuse to eat, or yell at or attack others need more care than AL can provide.
  7. If someone becomes ill, they may temporarily need skilled nursing, but if it’s a frequent occurrence, they’re safer with skilled nursing care all the time.
  8. Even if your parent frequently becomes confused, as long as they can communicate, they will do well in Memory Support, where staff are trained in communication techniques.
  9. People who refuse or are unable to follow instructions pose a danger to themselves and others.
  10. Most Assisted Living communities offer 3 nutritious meals a day, even though many also offer a kitchen, so a senior who is having problems cooking need never cook again.

If you’re still unsure, their physician can tell you which is best. If a person lives in an Assisted Living community, they receive regular assessments to determine whether they should move to skilled nursing. In addition, if they become ill, they may temporarily receive skilled nursing care.

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Financial Differences Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

Cost Differences

The average annual cost in Massachusetts for Assisted Living is $65,550 for 2016, according to the Genworth 2016 Cost of Care Survey. The cost for Memory Support is approximately 23% higher.

That’s compared to $135,050 for a semi-private room and $144,175 for a private room in a skilled nursing facility.

Genworth estimates that costs will increase to $78,270 for Assisted Living, $161,257 for a semi-private skilled nursing room, and $172,152 for a private skilled nursing room by 2022.

Payment Options

Payment for costs differs between Assisted Living and skilled nursing.

Assisted Living costs do not qualify for Medicare payment in most cases and, as a result, are primarily paid for out of pocket. Veterans pensions, long-term care insurance, and Medicaid (in some states) may cover costs. In Massachusetts, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and HOME programs and MassHealth/Medicaid programs, such as the Group Adult Foster Care Program, the (PCA) Personal Care Attendant Program and the (PACE) Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, may be used to cover costs. Additional programs may help with Memory Support care.

Medicaid will cover the costs for skilled nursing care, but only after a person’s assets are spent down.

Other Differences Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

Residential Differences

Although Assisted Living communities vary nationwide, most residents live in their own private apartments with doors that lock. For safety reasons, people who require skilled nursing live in rooms with bathrooms and easy access by nursing staff.

Programs

Although both communities offer on-campus entertainment that may include seminars, crafts, local musicians, and school groups, Assisted Living communities also provide off-campus transportation to activities and attractions.

Other Services

Both Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing offer housekeeping and laundry services.

What Does The Arbors Offer?

Here at The Arbors Assisted Living Residential Communities, we foster the independence of residents. We promote an active, engaging lifestyle with programs that enhance seniors’ well-being. Each community is customized for its residents, including food choices, programs, trips and more. If you have questions about how The Arbors can help your parent live an independent, active, fulfilling life, please contact us.

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The Arbors® and The Ivy™ at Ellington are not affiliated with or related in any way to Arbors of Hop Brook Retirement Community in Manchester, Connecticut.

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Have you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

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In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how health care professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.

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Assisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

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This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

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If you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

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The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community: What You Need to Know Before You Begin Your SearchHave you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Costs and AffordabilityAre you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Having “The Talk” With Your Parent: It’s Time for Assisted Living
Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-The Challenges of Aging: How to Handle Your Aging Parent’s Difficult BehaviorsDifficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Becoming a Family Caregiver: What You Need to Know Before Deciding to Take Care of a Loved One
Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Helping Your Parent Manage DepressionIs your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

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The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Is It Depression? A Guide to Identifying and Addressing Depression in Aging AdultsHas your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

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The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

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The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Why We Chose the Arbors Assisted Living and Memory Care: A Collection of Stories from Residents Living at The ArborsWhere do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-7 Warning Signs It’s Time to Make the Move to Assisted Living
Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Getting Your Affairs in Order
No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Guide to Making the Move to Assisted Living
Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Solutions to Common Caregiving ChallengesIn this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

How Moving My Loved One to The Arbors Eliminated My Caregiving ChallengesHave you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-When is the Right Time for Memory Care?In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What to Look for in a Memory Care CommunityIn this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how healthcare professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

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Guide-Brothers and Sisters
Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-The StandoffAssisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-11 Most Common Caregiving Challenges
A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Checklist_ Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living Community
This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What is Assisted Living Really LikeIf you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Cost Comparison guide

You’re probably wondering how much the different senior living options compare to your current situation.
If you do, then this guide is exactly what you need.


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