As assisted living community is a residential program for seniors who may need assistance with daily activities, such as personal care, mobility, medication administration, meal preparation or household chores, but do not require skilled nursing care. Assisted living programs strive to create a home-like setting that promotes independence.
Nursing homes are designed for people who need daily nursing care. These facilities have nurses available 24 hours a day and have a range of services, such as social workers, physical, speech and occupational therapists, etc. to meet their resident’s health care needs.
Often, nursing home services are needed following a hospitalization or significant decline in health and is focused on rehabilitation that is intended to prepare residents to return to their home. When that is not possible, assisted living may be an option.