What is the Difference Between Assisted Living/Personal Care and Skilled Care?
As we age, our needs can vary greatly from person to person. Some seniors, who do not require 24-hour care, may benefit from living independently in a senior residential center, while others may need the round-the-clock care of a skilled nursing facility. Choosing the best care for yourself or a loved one can be overwhelming, but knowing more about the available options can help you choose the right facility for your unique situation.
What is assisted living/personal care?
An assisted living facility is a residential community where seniors have the independence to pursue an active lifestyle in a home-like setting while also having access to more support than in-home care services. It is important to note that assisted living and personal care facilities do not provide skilled medical care.
“Every facility is different, but most provide meals in a family-style restaurant-like setting, housekeeping, laundry and transportation, as well as assistance with taking medications, eating, bathing, grooming and personal hygiene,” said Kurt Nesbitt, Director of Personal Care at Penn Highlands Healthcare.
Assisted living facilities/personal care homes also offer residents a thriving social environment with a range of life-enriching activities, such as clubs, themed dinners, movies, games and crafts.
What is skilled nursing care?
A skilled nursing care facility is an in-patient center that provides 24-hour medical supervision to patients with physical or mental conditions that leave them unable to care for themselves. These facilities are more similar to hospital settings, while assisted living facilities/personal care homes are more like residential developments.
“Skilled care provides medical and rehabilitation services based on a person’s specific health needs,” said Anne Bruno, NHA, LSW, Administrator at Penn Highlands Jefferson Manor in Brookville, Pa. “People may choose skilled care as a long-term arrangement or for short-term support while recovering from an illness, injury or surgery.”
How should I decide between assisted living/personal care and skilled nursing?
The biggest factor when deciding what type of facility is best for you or a loved one is the amount of care needed on a daily basis. Individuals in an assisted living facility/personal care home are generally medically stable and do not require 24/7 care, while skilled nursing care facilities are for those who require a significant amount of medical care for an extended period of time.
Assisted living/personal care might be the best option if you or your loved one:
- Suffered a fall in the past six months
- Lives with chronic pain or a complex medical condition
- Struggles with medication management
- Struggles with nutritional needs, such as grocery shopping, meal preparation or healthy eating
- Requires help with daily personal care or household upkeep
- Requires help with transportation
A skilled nursing facility may be right if you or a loved one:
- Requires ongoing medical care after an injury
- Need rehabilitation after a stroke
- Are recovering after surgery
- Suffer from a significant illness
The first step in deciding what type of support is best is by talking to a physician. If discussing plans for a family member or friend, be sure to include them in the discussion so that they have a role in what comes next, which can make the transition easier.
Penn Highlands Healthcare is dedicated to providing excellent senior care services throughout the region. Penn Highlands offers comprehensive services, including assisted living/personal care, adult day care, long-term care and senior housing. The team at Penn Highlands can help you evaluate your needs and choose the right option for you or a loved one. For more information, visit www.phhealthcare.org/seniorcare/.