What are the differences between home care and assisted living?

by | Jun 18, 2013 | Health

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Assisted living in Waldorf MD provides assistance for those who may not be capable to living an independent life, home care can mimic the care that assisted living facilities give, but with a difference. Assisted living provides care in an institutional setting while the other provides the care at home. The costs associated with home care and assisted living can vary depending on the type of care the individual requires, the length of time the person requires care and the area of the country. Payment for both services can be rendered through private insurance, government programs or direct payment from the patient or the patient’s family.

When an individual is in an assisted living facility they may live in stand-alone homes, apartments or rooms. The living conditions all depend on the care the person requires. Assisted living facilities in Waldorf MD attempt to facilitate independent living, while at the same time, offering assistance with such things as cooking, dressing and bathing. There are some assisted living facilities that transition as the need for additional care increases; this improves the quality of life for the patient as they remain in surroundings which by now have become very familiar.

When the individual opts for home care, similar care can be given but it is provided by caregivers who either live on-site or visit periodically, the care given depends on the condition of the patient. Whereas assisted living in Waldorf MD expect that the patient will live in the facility, those who elect home care stay in their home and community, this allows the person to continue with neighbourhood activities and maintain lifelong friendships. Living at home can be more challenging as there may be a need to make modifications to the house to accommodate the elderly individual. Depending on where the person lives, there may also be concerns about immediate access to medical care as well as routine treatment with therapist, etc. This is never the case with an assisted living facility, medical help is always available on site and specialist services such as dentists and physical therapists are provided by visiting specialists.

The choice between home care and assisted living requires that the patient and the patient’s needs are thoroughly evaluated. One of the best ways to make the determination is to visit an assisted living facility with the elderly family member to see what they may think. Taylor Farm Assisted Living in Waldorf MD is built upon a village concept where small groups of eight or less residents live together as a family, receiving far more individualized care than they may expect in larger institutions.