There are different types of facilities that provide long-term care to older adults. The level of care available in each is what sets each facility apart and determines how much you need to pay to get in.
U.S. News and World Report explains the different types of facilities. Understanding how they are different can help you with the long-term planning process.
1. Assisted living
Assisted living facilities offer the support of an on-site caregiver 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They usually offer light personal services such as meal preparation and housekeeping. Sometimes you can receive assistance with daily personal care or medication management. There may be different levels of care available, and you choose the ones you require.
2. Nursing home
If you have a chronic physical or mental condition and require more care than you can receive in an assisted living facility, a nursing home may be a suitable option for you. Nursing homes typically provide the same services as assisted living facilities, plus supervision around the clock and nursing care. Your doctor may prescribe the care that you should receive.
3. Skilled nursing facility
Skilled nursing facilities also provide rehabilitation services. Therefore, some residents are permanent, while others only stay until they have recovered from an injury, illness or surgery. A skilled nursing facility may have both doctors and nurses on staff and provide a higher level of care than you would typically find in a nursing home. If you require chronic medical care, e.g., kidney dialysis, or require the assistance of two individuals to move you, a skilled nursing facility may be the right choice for you.
Another option that may be available for you is a continuing care retirement community. This is a good choice if you do not like the idea of making multiple moves. A CCRC provides independent living units, assisted living and nursing home facilities all on the same site, and you transition to different care levels as necessary.