If you are looking to receive additional care, you may be considering moving to a nursing home or an assisted living community. Choosing between a Manassas, VA, assisted living community vs a nursing home is a big decision, and you want to choose the right option.
In this blog post, we will be discussing what you can expect to find at an assisted living community in Manassas vs a nursing home and which option is best for your needs.
Nursing Homes
Understanding what a nursing home provides is vital if you are looking at your options before making this big move. Nursing homes are designed for people who do not need to be at a hospital but still require care they cannot provide. Because of this, nursing homes are not just designed for seniors, they are also able to help those with disabilities or progressing health issues.
Those who live in nursing homes usually struggle significantly with day-to-day tasks. It may not be safe for them to live alone, or they may be unable to take care of their own hygienic, dietary, or health needs.
Benefits
The main benefit of moving to a nursing home is that you will receive 24/7 care. Nursing home staff are present around the clock and can assist with more complex health issues and emergencies.
Aside from the daily assistance residents have access to, other necessary services are also provided. This includes things like three meals a day, laundry services, housekeeping, and transportation.
Drawbacks
Although a nursing home is necessary for many seniors as they require more care, there are some drawbacks you should first consider. One drawback is that the environment is not nearly as warm and welcoming as an assisted living community. A nursing home has a more clinical atmosphere where the residents may live in private or semi-private rooms that do not come with additional spaces like a living room or kitchen.
Nursing homes can also become much more expensive since they provide more care than a standard assisted living community. The price will go up depending on the level of care you need as well as if you want a private room over a semi-private room.
Assisted Living Communities
If you have decided that you want to receive additional care in a safer setting, an assisted living community may be a good fit. A Manassas, VA, assisted living community is designed for older adults who want to receive personalized care on a daily basis. These communities have a residential setting where seniors have their own apartments with features like a living room and kitchen to give them greater independence.
In one of these communities, you can still enjoy the picturesque beauty of Manassas with its tree-lined streets and historic features. A community like Arbor Terrace Sudley Manor is located right in the heart of Manassas, giving you access to all of the best activities it has to offer.
Seniors who live in an assisted living community usually require a certain level of daily assistance. They do not require as much assistance as someone in a nursing home, but they may need help with things like transportation, meals, and health condition management.
Benefits
As you age, certain tasks become more difficult, which is why you may want to move to an assisted living community. This community provides daily assistance such as dressing, personal care, housekeeping, and getting to where you need to go. Your care is personalized according to what your needs are, giving you the opportunity for greater independence.
Unlike nursing homes, assisted living communities have a more home-like environment for the residents. These communities also have a strong focus on helping seniors maintain a healthy body and mind. Different programs are provided where seniors can engage in social activities as well as exercise programs.
At a Manassas, VA assisted living community, you can enjoy exploring the local landscapes, including parks, trails, and golf courses. You will also be located right where everything is going on, so you can continue to enjoy all of the dining and shopping options that Manassas has to provide.
An assisted living community provides additional resources, such as transportation. This allows you to still get out and enjoy different activities if you want to visit the historic landmarks in Manassas or see the museums. Most assisted living communities have monthly events, trips, and activities planned within the community to encourage socialization as well.
Assisted living communities are also more affordable than most nursing homes since residents still have a certain level of independence and don’t require as much care.
Drawbacks
Assisted living communities may not be ideal for those who will require more assistance in the future. These communities have limited medical care and are designed for seniors who are still in generally good health. Because of this, you may have to move later on if your health issues progress or you develop new health problems.
Similarities Between Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Communities
Even though assisted living communities and nursing homes are very different, they do have some similarities. Here are some examples of similarities between these two options:
- Medication Management: As you get older, it can be difficult to manage your medication without making some mistakes along the way. Both types of communities provide medication management so that there is a reduced risk of you not taking your medication correctly.
- Safer Environment: Aging comes with a range of symptoms, one of which includes limited mobility. Both communities provide a safer environment with safety features, as well as staff who are nearby in the case of an emergency. Living in a regulated environment is especially important if you don’t have family local to Manassas, VA.
- Nutritious Meals: Maintaining a healthy diet is vital for staying healthy and at a healthy weight as you age. Nursing homes and assisted living communities provide three meals a day with a menu that is cultivated by a qualified chef.
- Supportive Services: Both communities provide supportive services, such as laundry, housekeeping, and basic personal care services. They also provide transportation, which is often necessary if you no longer have your driver's license.
How to Know Which One to Choose
Choosing between a nursing home versus an assisted living community can feel very overwhelming, but you need to consider what your primary needs are. If you are still quite independent but require a little daily assistance and care, an assisted living community may be the right fit for you. If you have health concerns and require more extensive care, you may need to move to a nursing home to get the medical attention you require.
You should also consider the type of lifestyle you want to continue to live when you make this transition. For instance, if you love the weather and the scenery in Manassas, VA, an assisted living community may provide more outdoor activities as well as outdoor landscapes where you can enjoy time in nature.
At Arbor Terrace Sudley Manor, we have a thriving assisted living community where residents can age with grace and still enjoy their independence. To find out more about this community, download The Complete Guide to Assisted Living to better understand if this is the right option for you.
