Assisted living and Residential Assisted Living Homes are both types of housing for seniors. Because these two options have some similarities, it’s important to understand the major differences. Here is an overview of assisted living vs. Residential Assisted Living Homes so that you can make the best choice for your loved one or yourself.

Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities are designed to provide assistance to seniors who need help with daily activities. They offer assistance services, including:
  • Bathing
  • Eating
  • Cooking
  • Toileting
  • Medication management
This type of facility usually has dozens to hundreds of rooms. It offers a range of services, including independent living and skilled nursing services. Due to its large size, it is possible that there are nurses and physicians available on-site.

Residential Assisted Living Homes

Residential Assisted Living Homes are for adults who would rather live in a smaller, home-like setting at a lower cost.. Similar to other senior housing communities, Residential Assisted Living Homes provide a more personalized health and meal service. They also often provide medical services through contracted medical providers. However, it’s highly unlikely that they’ll have nurses on site. Residential Assisted Living Homes are often retrofitted private homes. As a result, residential Assisted Living homes tend to focus on providing a more personalized and homelike experience for their residents. Some of the services provided by Residential Assisted Living Homes include:
  • Meal preparation
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Transportation services
  • Medication management and administration
  • A semi-private room or a private room

Assisted Living Facilities vs. Residential Assisted Living Homes

For the purposes of this article, both assisted living facilities and Residential Assisted Living Homes provide care through assisted living services. The main difference is the size of the facility, the number of residents, and the level of personalized care. Where Residential Assisted Living Homes might bring in contracted nurses or provide transportation to doctor appointments, some larger assisted living facilities have these professionals onsite.

Assisted Living vs Skilled Nursing Facilities

The main difference between assisted living and Skilled nursing Facilities is that Skilled Nursing Facilities provide around-the-clock medical care that needs to be performed by a Registered Nurse, while assisted living does not. Assisted living is for people who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the restroom. Skilled Nursing Facilities are for people who can’t live independently and need constant supervision and medical care performed by a Registered Nurse. Skilled Nursing Facilities provide a higher level of care for seniors who need help with activities of daily living. Skilled Nursing Facilities are also more expensive than assisted living homes, and they typically have a much higher staff-to-resident ratio.

Residential Care Considerations

When considering residential care, there are a number of important factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, you’ll want to find a facility that is clean and well-maintained. You’ll also want to make sure that the staff is friendly and attentive. Furthermore, you’ll want to ensure that the residents are happy and well-cared for. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the cost of care fits your budget. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can be sure to find the best possible residential care for your loved one.

When is it Time for Assisted Living?

There is no one answer to this question, as it depends on each individual situation. However, some common signs that it may be time for assisted living include needing help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and using the restroom; experiencing social isolation; and having difficulty managing medications. If you are noticing any of these issues with a loved one, it may be time to explore assisted living options.

Schedule a Tour of a Gardens Care Community

Assisted living facilities and Residential Assisted Living Homes are both types of housing for older adults, but they have some significant differences. If you’re searching for assisted living, you should consider the level of personalization and assistance provided by the facility. Furthermore, you should also look at the staff-to-resident ratio to find a facility that is appropriate for your loved one or yourself. If you are interested in learning more about residential assisted living, contact Gardens Care at 303-566-1085 to schedule a tour today. Our knowledgeable staff would be happy to arrange a tour at any one of our communities.