What Is the Difference Between a Nursing Home & an Assisted Living Facility?

When the time comes in someone's life when they can no longer safely exist on their own, living arrangements can be difficult. Nursing home facilities offer 24-hour a day oversight and care, while assisted living facilities are available to individuals requiring less intervention with daily tasks. The main difference between the two facilities is medical care.

Significance

• Senior citizens and handicapped or otherwise impaired individuals may find themselves in need of residential assistance; some may need a nursing home residence, while others should choose assisted living communities.

Nursing Homes

• Nursing home facilities provide a place to live and 24-hour skilled care. Professionally trained staff is available on every shift, providing meals, oversight and general care. Doctors are available and on call for regular and emergency visits.

Assisted Living

• Assisted living facilities offer assistance with some basic tasks and medication reminders, but do not provide medical care. The facilities feature home-like settings and are communal living places.

Considerations

• Nursing homes can offer short or long-term admissions. For example, after surgery, a person may need 24-hour care during recovery. In this case, short-term admission into a nursing home facility could be appropriate.

Cost

• According to a 2004 survey conducted by MetLife, the cost of a private room in a nursing home is around $192 per day; assisted living facilities range from $800 to $4000 monthly.