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Find the right senior living situation for you
When an older adult wants a sense of community and to give up home maintenance, a senior living community can be an excellent solution. But a senior living community is not the same thing as a “nursing home.” There are a wide variety of senior living options available, and while a nursing home is right for some older adults, others may have needs that better fit another senior living solution. View the table below for clarity on what separates nursing homes from other senior living communities.
|
Independent Living |
Assisted Living |
Nursing Homes |
Who it’s for |
Independent, active, older adults who want to spend their time with a community instead of house maintenance and cleaning. |
Somewhat independent adults who need some assistance with daily activities. |
Older adults with serious medical needs that require a nurse’s attention. Issues may be physical or for memory loss. |
Cost |
Differs by location and services provided. |
Varies depending on level of assistance required and type of living space. |
Can be high, but Medicare or Medicaid may cover the cost. |
Meals |
Can be provided. |
Provided. |
Provided. |
Health services |
Varies by community. |
Most have a licensed nurse on-site 24/7. |
Licensed physicians supervise care and nursing professionals are available 24/7. Rehabilitation services are provided. |
Medication |
Medications handled independently. |
Medication management varies. |
Nurses administer medications. |
Living situation |
Residents have their own apartment or room; common areas are shared. |
Residents have their own apartment or room; common areas are shared. |
Rooms may be shared. Memory care residents may not have access to a kitchen for safety reasons. |
Security |
Basic surveillance systems. |
Surveillance systems, visitor management, limited entry points. |
Surveillance systems, visitor management, limited entry points. |
Get to know our community
Gone are the days when nursing homes were the only option for older adults. Today’s senior living communities offer plenty of benefits to older people who may not need the full services of a nursing home. Learn more about what Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina has to offer by visiting www.prescommunities.org