The Difference Between Assisted & Skilled Care

Assisted care facilities provide safe and comfortable environments for older adults, but offer limited or no skilled nursing services. Skilled nursing services are often found in nursing homes and hospice care.

Assisted Living Care

• Older adults who need some assistance with daily living activities such as cooking and cleaning may choose to reside in an assisted living facility. The focus of these facilities is to limit isolation and provide a comfortable living and socializing environment where older adults can still live with a great deal of independence.

Skilled Nursing Care

• Nursing homes offer the most medical care and supervision for older adults outside of a hospital. Skilled and licensed nurses work in nursing homes in order to provide all manner of medical care. Older adults who have serious medical or cognitive problems that require regular medical management are ideal candidates for skilled nursing care and facilities.

Licensure

• One of the most important differences between assisted living and skilled nursing care facilities is whether or not they are licensed to provide medical care. Assisted living facilities are typically staffed 24 hours a day and can call an ambulance or doctor, but they cannot provide the care themselves. Skilled nursing facilities, however, are licensed to administer necessary medical care to residents.