Assisted Living
The Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Home Care
Senior living in Westlake Village comes in all shapes and sizes to accommodate the diverse needs of an aging population. Two of the most common types of senior living are assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Some people think they’re synonymous, but they’re actually quite different from one another.
In fact, after reading this article, you might find that assisted living has everything you need to be healthy, happy and productive in your later years, including intermittent medical care and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). To make an informed decision, let’s explore the differences between assisted living and nursing home care.
What is Assisted Living in Westlake Village?
Assisted living is a great option for older adults who cannot or choose not to live alone but want to maintain an active lifestyle. These centers cater to seniors who are independent but no longer want the daily responsibilities of maintaining a home and all the burden that entails to mostly independent, but also may require some assistance with activities like showering, dressing and using the toilet. Even those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s can do very well in the specialized programs and unique living environment these communities provides.
Outside of the assistance they provide, many assisted living communities rival a fancy resort. You can find an assortment of restaurant-style dining, happy hours, social activities, outings, luxury suites with mini kitchens and help with laundry and housekeeping. Knowing this, it’s no surprise that assisted living facilities have a 93% satisfaction rate.
What is Nursing Home Care?
A nursing home is typically the highest level of care for older adults outside of a hospital setting. Nursing homes provide both medical care and non-medical care. They can assist residents with getting in and out of bed, feeding, bathing and dressing. Medical professionals are almost always on site, and skilled nursing care is offered 24 hours a day.
Unlike assisted living where people as young as 55 can take advantage of the facilities, almost half of people in nursing homes are 85 years old or older. Very few are younger than 65. The majority of nursing home residents require regular assistance and supervision, and many struggle with incontinence or cognitive problems.
Key Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
Both types of senior care in Westlake Village focus on providing a safe and supportive community that residents can call home. And both provide supportive services, balanced meals, life enrichment and medication management. The biggest differences have to do with the medical services provided.
Residents in a nursing home generally require around-the-clock monitoring. They typically have more complex health conditions that depend on skilled nursing. You’ll also find that these facilities tend to look more “institutional” because of the type of care provided.
Assisted living residents usually only require some support with activities of daily living. They may have some memory problems or need help getting into their wheelchair. Otherwise, they want an active life with activities, socialization and independence.
Here is a quick comparison chart for your reference:
| Assisted Living | Nursing Home Care | |
| Types of Care Services | Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and medication management. | Assistance with ADLs, medication management, skilled nursing and some medical treatments. |
| Types of Non-care Based Services | Recreational activities, transportation, laundry, housekeeping and supervision. | Limited recreational activities, meals, laundry, housekeeping and supervision. |
| Living Spaces | Private and shared apartments with private bathrooms, extensive common living spaces and outside grounds. | Private and shared rooms available; possibly some shared common areas. |
| Typical Residents | Require some help with personal care but are mostly independent. Open to receiving assistance. | Require extensive personal care and/or daily medical care. Have trouble making decisions. Not open to assistance. |
| Payment Options | Mostly paid for out-of-pocket, but financial assistance may be available. | Mostly paid for by Medicaid, but benefits may not kick in until beneficiaries pay down their assets. |
Choosing the Best Retirement Communities in Westlake Village
In the past several decades, senior living choices have expanded tremendously. As the baby boomer population ages, assisted living communities have evolved to offer the best of both worlds – a high level of care, attention and safety in a luxurious, upscale community. Even those with Alzheimer’s or dementia can do very well in a center that offers memory care in LA county.
Varenita of Westlake is proud to offer luxury assisted living for the local Westlake Village/Thousand Oaks area residents. Our community features intelligent floor plans, inspiring outdoor areas, fine dining, holistic wellness programs and so much more. You can also enjoy close proximity to the Promenade at Westlake Village for shopping, dining and entertainment. Imagine the possibilities of what your life could be!
To learn more about Varenita of Westlake and if it’s the right fit for you or a loved one, contact us today. We’ll be more than happy to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make a confident, informed decision.