Deciding on the best care option for your mom requires understanding her particular needs. Assisted living communities and nursing homes can each provide valuable care, but they differ in the level of care and independence they can offer.
Assisted living is often the ideal choice if your mom still maintains relative independence yet needs some assistance with daily tasks. This support allows her to keep her routine and lifestyle while receiving the necessary care.
The decision of which type of care is deeply personal, and exploring what is best for her will ensure your mom receives the best care for her needs and preferences.
Understanding the Difference Between Assisted Living & a Nursing Home
Assisted living communities and nursing homes are 2 potential options for seniors, each catering to different needs.
Assisted Living Community
An assisted living community is structured for those who need aid with activities of daily living (ADLs). These may include things like medication management, dressing, bathing, and meals. But there is often a significant focus on providing residents with a combination of support and autonomy to promote independence.
Private or semi-private apartments and access to common areas like dining areas, activity rooms, and outdoor spaces are typically available. Your mom can enjoy various social events and wellness programs fostering an active lifestyle.
In Florida, assisted living communities like Somerby Santa Rosa Beach are licensed and regulated by the state and routinely inspected to meet safety and care standards. They are equipped to provide non-medical services and personal care but do not offer the level of intensive medical care that nursing homes do.
If nursing or frequent medical interventions are a must for your mom, assisted living may not be suitable.
Nursing Home
Nursing homes typically provide 24/7 medical care and are ideal for those who require constant medical supervision due to chronic conditions, severe health issues, or disabilities. These facilities offer a higher level of care, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and unique services for complex medical needs.
Florida nursing homes must be licensed and meet state and federal regulations to ensure quality care. They undergo routine inspections to adhere to these standards. The primary focus of a nursing home is on providing medical care and support, which include therapy services, monitoring chronic conditions, and rehabilitation post illness or injury.
If your loved one needs constant medical supervision or intensive nursing care, a nursing home is likely the best choice.
When to Consider Assisted Living
Assisted living may provide the right mix of care and independence as your mother’s needs evolve. Here are signs that it might be time to consider this option:
- Struggles to manage medications: Assisted living can help with medication management if your mom often forgets to take her medication or has trouble understanding her prescriptions.
- Difficulties with personal care: If your mom needs help dressing, bathing, or maintaining personal hygiene, it may be time to consider assisted living.
- Declining mobility: If your mom has issues moving around at home or falls frequently, a more supportive and secure environment, like an assisted living community, might be beneficial.
- Loneliness or isolation: Assisted living communities offer social activities to keep your mom engaged and socially connected if she is lonely or isolated at home.
- Difficulty maintaining a household: Assisted living can take care of tasks like housekeeping, cooking, and grocery shopping, allowing your mom to focus on what she enjoys.
- Caregiver stress: Assisted living can offer relief if you or other family members are overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities. Respite care could be something your family can consider if a temporary care solution or break is all your family needs.
Why Choose Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities offer more than just assistance with daily activities. They are designed to support seniors as their needs progress, offering a balance of care, independence, and opportunities for social interactions.
- Social connection opportunities: Residents can easily form new friendships and remain engaged through activities like game nights, group exercise classes, and fun trips.
- 24/7 security: With staff available around the clock, residents and their families can feel assured that help is always just a call away.
- Convenient medical support: While assisted living communities do not focus on intensive medical care like nursing homes, they provide easy access to medical assistance and can coordinate with healthcare providers to address residents’ needs.
- In-house therapies: Many communities offer wellness services like physical, occupational, and speech therapy, making it easy for residents to get the care they need without leaving the community.
- Health and wellness programs: Assisted living communities often provide fitness programs, wellness activities, and other resources to keep residents healthy, active, and engaged.
Experience Life at Somerby Santa Rosa Beach
Deciding to move to an assisted living facility is a personal decision. Our team at Somerby Santa Rosa Beach can help facilitate a smooth and supportive transition, offering guidance at every step.
If you’re still uncertain whether assisted living is the right option, we’re here to listen and provide personalized advice for your unique circumstances.
Schedule a visit today and see how Somerby Santa Rosa Beach can provide your beloved mom with the care, comfort, and community she deserves.
