At Charter Senior Living of Buford, we offer Assisted Living and Memory Care lifestyles met with personalization and compassion. When families come to us for guidance on which level of care is best for their loved one, we often get asked about Skilled Nursing, and if there’s a difference between Skilled Nursing and Assisted Living.
There are, in fact, many differences between the two that you and your loved ones should keep in mind before making any decisions about future care. Learn more, below, along with the benefits that come with Assisted Living at Charter.
The Main Differences Between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing
Assisted Living (Forbes Health) and Skilled Nursing (Medicare.gov) are two types of long-term care options for individuals who may need assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) or have medical needs. Here are the key differences between the two:
1. Level of care
- Assisted Living provides assistance with ADLs, such as bathing, dressing, medication management and meal preparation. Residents in Assisted Living generally have more independence and may not require extensive medical care or supervision.
- Skilled Nursing offers a higher level of medical care and assistance. It is suitable for individuals with complex medical needs who require 24/7 monitoring and care. Skilled Nursing facilities always have licensed medical professionals on staff.
2. Medical services
- Assisted Living communities typically do not have a full range of medical services. They may have staff trained in basic health care, but residents often need to arrange for outside health care providers.
- Skilled Nursing provides a range of medical services, including around-the-clock nursing care, rehabilitation services and access to medical professionals such as doctors and therapists.
3. Facility environment
- Assisted Living offers a more homelike environment with private or semi-private rooms and residences. Residents have more autonomy and may participate in social activities and outings.
- Skilled Nursing often has a clinical setting with private or shared rooms. The focus is on meeting the medical needs of residents, and social activities may be limited compared to Assisted Living.
4. Cost
- Assisted Living costs are generally less expensive than Skilled Nursing care. Costs in Assisted Living facilities are based on the level of assistance required and the chosen living arrangement by the resident.
- Skilled Nursing can be more expensive due to the higher level of medical care provided. Costs are often associated with the intensity of medical services required.
- There are several ways to pay for Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing, including long-term care insurance, Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits, Medicare and Medicaid.
5. Regulation
- Assisted Living is governed by state regulations, which vary but may not have as stringent requirements as Skilled Nursing facilities.
- Skilled Nursing is subject to more rigorous regulations and may be certified by Medicare and Medicaid. Skilled Nursing facilities must adhere to specific health care standards.
In summary, Assisted Living is geared towards providing support with daily activities in a more independent setting, while Skilled Nursing is focused on delivering a higher level of medical care for individuals with complex health needs. The choice between the two depends on the individual’s health condition and the level of care required.
The Benefits of Assisted Living at Charter Senior Living of Buford
While there are several differences between Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing, it’s important to know that Assisted Living at Charter Senior Living of Buford is also much different from what you’d find at other senior living communities.
We allow Assisted Living residents to live as independently as possible through:
- 24/7 personalized care services and support
- Assistance with ADLs
- A full social calendar of activities and events, including craft corner, meditations, fitness classes, clubs and happy hours
- A wide variety of convenient services and amenities, including three meals per day with unlimited snacks, weekly housekeeping and laundry services, an in-home medical care emergency call system, a pet-friendly community and access to on-site therapies provided by local, licensed partners
- A safe, family-like environment
- Spacious, comfortable apartments
Our individualized approach to care is what sets us apart, and what helps residents live life to the fullest each and every day.
Feel the difference of our Assisted Living community in Buford, GA
If you or a loved one needs additional support in order to make the most out of each day, Assisted Living at Charter Senior Living of Buford is here for you. Give us a call today to learn more about our Assisted Living services and amenities.