8 Differences Between Skilled Nursing And Assisted Living
ereece • August 16, 2021
As you grow old, you may need help to perform basic activities like bathing and dressing. You may also need constant medical care due to poor health. In such cases, you must live in a skilled nursing institution or an assisted living institution. Read this blog to determine which is a better option for you.
Following are some differences between skilled nursing and assisted living:
- Level of Need- If you need help for simple activities, like bathing and eating, assisted living is an appropriate choice. Skilled nursing is a better choice if you need 24x7 medical care, like daily therapy or a ventilator. You must discuss with your doctor to determine what is suitable for you.
- Setup- Assisted living is like a residential set up in a cottage or even a lavish apartment. Skilled nursing is more of a medical setup at a nursing center or a rehabilitation center. However, skilled nursing settings are increasingly being designed more like a residence and less like a hospital.
- Staff- As per the law, skilled nursing must have a licensed nurse for at least 8 hours a day. The physical presence of a licensed nurse is not compulsory at an assisted living center. However, the nurse must be accessible for telephonic consultations.
- Goal- The goal for skilled nursing institutions is to rehabilitate a person so that he/she can return to his/her regular life. Assisted living aims to help individuals perform basic tasks like dressing and bathing. However, both institutions encourage their residents to engage in their social events.
- Independence- If you live in a skilled nursing setup, your schedule will be formulated considering your health condition. However, if you enroll yourself in an assisted living, you may enjoy greater independence as per the level of assistance you need. You may even have the freedom to come and go using the institution’s transportation services.
- Cost- Since you would need constant medical care in a skilled nursing setting, it is more costly than assisted living. However, you can cover these costs through your insurance policies.
- Duration of stay- You have to stay in a skilled nursing setting until your health improves. You have to stay at an assisted living program if you need help with specific tasks while enjoying a regular life. So, a skilled nursing stay is short-term, while assisted living programs are for a longer period.
- Insurance coverage- The government may fund your medical bills of skilled nursing if you are registered for Medicaid or Medicare schemes. Generally, health insurance policies do not cover assisted living expenses. However, some long-term care insurance policies may provide coverage to assisted living costs.
About the business
Aging comes with many health problems which may require the constant help of others. If you are looking for an assisted living program, Cheltenham Oaks Assisted Living is a perfect choice. We analyze your current medical condition and cater to your personal assistance needs. We are known for our efficient services and commitment to our residents. For more information about us, contact us at (301) 263-6981, connect through email at ereece@cheltenhamoaks.com or fill out the contact form.
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