Helping Aging Parents Decide: The Benefits of Home Care vs. Assisted Living

As adults age, it can be more challenging for some to live independently. Physical abilities decline, resulting in mobility limitations. Cognitive function also falls, especially when diagnosed with conditions like dementia. For these reasons, some seniors require more healthcare than the average person, which family members at home may not have the time, expertise, or resources to provide. On the other side of the spectrum, some seniors may not require hands-on care and can easily live at home alone; this doesn’t mean they don’t need appropriate socialization and enrichment. Since no two seniors are alike, there is a wide variety of care options that can help with daily living. Typically, care options are split categorically between in-home care and assisted living communities, but even these categories vary between the level of care offered. With so many options available, how do you know what is best for your aging loved one? Research is the first step.

In-Home Care

In-home care refers to a caregiver, nurse, or aide visiting the senior’s residence to provide care. Older adults who prefer to stay at their homes often select this option. In-home care aides can perform various tasks, from IV medication to bathing, right in the comfort of the senior’s home.

The Benefits of In-Home Care

If seniors or their families do not want to be separated from each other as they would in a care facility, in-home care is a great option. Helpers, aides, or nurses can take care of complex medical treatments that family members do not have the time or expertise to do themselves. In-home care can benefit many types of care levels and needs; some nurses can stay 24/7 with their patients to ensure round-the-clock care, while other aides can stay for an hour or two just to perform routine daily tasks. In-home care can promote independence and control over seniors’ routines. Caregivers can help seniors socialize and prevent isolation issues such as loneliness or falls. Certain caregivers may be more cost-effective than an assisted living facility.

Drawbacks of Home Aides

More extensive, round-the-clock care may not be affordable for families and may cost more than the average care community. A single caregiver may only be able to provide some of the socialization and enrichment needs a senior may require. Seniors living at home may be more susceptible to falls or health issues when left alone, mainly when round-the-clock care isn’t provided. When seniors live at home, they still need to ensure their homes are maintained and safe.

Assisted Living

Assisted living typically refers to a nursing or care community where seniors can receive round-the-clock care outside their homes. Seniors move into this facility with other aging residents, and a staff of nurses and caregivers helps perform daily tasks. Assisted living can also be an umbrella term for any out-of-home care facility. Senior living communities provide housing and independent living options for older adults who do not require as much hands-on care. Nursing homes with memory care options are on the opposite spectrum and assist seniors who need 24/7 assistance with medical care, bathing, dressing, and other daily activities.

The Perks of Assisted Living Communities

Assisted living communities provide various care options for many types of seniors. Residents are typically more supervised in most communities (apart from independent living communities). Senior communities typically offer more enrichment, socialization, and senior-friendly amenities than living at home without worrying about home maintenance. More staff means more eyes on residents, allowing for more adequate care without isolation or safety risks.

The Risks

While assisted living communities have many flexible benefits and options, not all facilities are alike. Some facilities have subpar security policies, which enable inadequate night supervision and security issues. Insufficient hiring procedures can lead to neglect or even abuse of residents. You can discover previous or current problems with senior communities by browsing reviews, finding local news results, and reviewing ratings or public violation records on reputable senior websites like Medicare. For example, the Medicare and Medicaid website indicates that  Alden Estates of Orland Park faced federal violation fines totaling $49,199. These fines are usually for issues like inadequate staffing, health violations, and poor safety standards. Reviewing publicly available information can help mitigate or avoid assisted living communities' risks. In addition to these risks, seniors in care facilities will spend less time at home. They will often be separated from family outside of visitation, which can be a difficult transition for seniors and their loved ones. Assisted living may not be affordable and cost much more than an in-home caregiver visit.

Making the Right Decision

Deciding with your aging parent can be challenging since no community, caregiver, or older adult is alike. Some adults thrive in independent living senior communities, while more family-oriented seniors prefer to stay home. There is no wrong option if you’ve considered all the needs, wants, and finances involved. Involve your aging parent in the decision and choose a time when everyone is relaxed and in a good mood. Consult with healthcare providers and caregivers to consider unbiased, outside opinions. Tour communities to get a better feel for various options. You can always change your mind if particular caregivers or communities don’t fit.