While most seniors would prefer to age in place in their current homes for as long as possible, over 70% will require long-term care within their lifetimes. When planning for their future needs, older adults may consider assisted living and home care, two popular senior care options. While both share many similarities, they are also quite different. When deciding on care options for yourself or an older adult loved one, this comparison guide can be a reference to help you determine which best suits your preferences and needs.
What is home care?
Home care, or in-home care, refers to nonmedical support services provided in the comfort of one’s home. Typically provided by licensed home care agencies, this specialized form of care allows seniors to receive assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) while maintaining their autonomy and independence. Highly trained in-home caregivers can assist with numerous tasks, including bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication management, transportation, and companionship.
What is assisted living?
Conversely, assisted living is a residential care option for seniors who require some assistance with daily tasks but do not need intensive medical care. Rather than receiving care in the home, seniors move to these facilities for 24-hour access to assistance as needed while still being able to move about their lives freely. These facilities can be stand-alone communities, but continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), another senior living option with several levels of care available on the same campus, also typically contain assisted living facilities.
As with an independent living community or a CCRC, assisted living residents enjoy access to social activities, events, and amenities that promote community and well-being.
Services provided
When comparing assisted living to home care, it is vital to consider the services each setting provides. In addition to room and board, assisted living residents can access around-the-clock personal care from trained care professionals. The level of care is typically tailored to each resident’s individual needs and preferences, ensuring they receive the support they need whenever they need it to live comfortably and safely. Residents may also have access to housekeeping and laundry services.
Home care can also provide assistance with personal care, housekeeping, and laundry in addition to meal preparation. In contrast, home care services are often scheduled based on the client’s needs, with caregivers assisting with specific tasks during their visits.
Neither option provides the type of skilled medical assistance one might receive in a nursing home, such as wound care, medication administration, and physical therapy. However, assisted living facilities may schedule visits from therapists at times.
Qualification requirements
Like independent living communities, assisted living facilities typically have specific admission criteria that residents must meet. These requirements may include a health assessment, financial screening, and a review of the individual’s care needs. Residents are typically limited in the amount of care they can receive and may be denied admission if they require assistance with too many ADLs. On the other hand, home care services are usually more flexible and tailored to the recipient’s needs and preferences, regardless of their health status or financial situation.
Ideal candidates for assisted living and home care
The ideal assisted living candidate values socialization, support with daily tasks, and a sense of community. These communities offer a range of services and amenities that cater to the needs of older adults who may benefit from living in a supportive environment.
On the other hand, the ideal candidate for home care may be someone who prefers to age in place among family and friends and wants to receive personalized care in the comfort of their own home. It also may be a good option for someone looking for scheduled periods of care rather than access to 24/7 support.
How much do assisted living and home care cost?
According to Genworth’s 2023 Cost of Care Survey, the median nationwide monthly cost for assisted living is over $5,000, depending on the location and level of care needed. The national median for home care services is over $30 per hour for standard assistance, with additional fees for specialized care.
When considering assisted living and home care costs, it is essential to factor in initial costs and ongoing expenses. Most assisted living facilities charge a monthly fee for rent, meals, and various basic services and amenities. Additional fees may apply for specific care needs or activities, such as medication management or transportation. In contrast, home care providers often charge by the hour for assistance, with additional fees for specialized care or support.
When deciding between these two care types, individuals should consider how much care they will need. For example, home care could provide a better value if they need only occasional support. However, if they need around-the-clock access to care, assisted living could be the better option, as 24/7 home care would typically cost more per month, not to mention that home care costs do not cover room and board or access to the amenities and social events included in assisted living costs.
Additional considerations
When comparing assisted living and home care, you must also consider your desired level of independence and autonomy. Assisted living facilities offer a structured environment with staff members available to provide on-demand assistance and support. This feature benefits seniors who require hands-on care and supervision and those who may benefit from social interactions and activities provided in a communal setting.
Conversely, home care allows seniors to maintain greater independence and control over their daily routines. Caregivers come to the home regularly, assisting with specific tasks while respecting their client’s privacy and personal space. This option may appeal to seniors who value independence and prefer to age in place, comforted by familiar surroundings and possessions.
Another key consideration when deciding between assisted living and home care is the individual’s social needs and preferences. Assisted living communities offer a built-in social network and opportunities for residents to engage in group activities, events, and outings. These socialization opportunities can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common among seniors who live alone or lack social connections.
Home care services are typically more personalized due to the one-on-one interactions between caregiver and care recipient. While this individualized care approach can provide enhanced companionship and personal attention, it may offer a different level of socialization and community from what you would find in an assisted living setting.
Assisted living or home care: Which is right for you?
Deciding between assisted living and home care is a personal choice that should be based on individual needs, preferences, and financial considerations. Assisted living provides a supportive environment with around-the-clock care and senior-focused services and amenities in a communal setting. In contrast, home care offers on-demand personalized care and support in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of one’s home and community.
Understanding key differences between the two empowers seniors and their families to make better-informed decisions about which option is right for them — ensuring their loved ones receive the care and support they need to thrive during their golden years.
