Say the words “senior living communities” or “nursing homes” and many people immediately bring up gloomy images from the past. However, much has changed. Today, there are many important differences between these two options, from lifestyle to accommodations to who best fits the resident profile for each. Below is some guidance to help you understand your options.
Nursing homes: around-the-clock medical care and attention
Nursing homes are specifically for people who need intensive, round-the-clock medical care. This is often due to a sudden change in health, or when recovering from hospitalization from an injury, stroke, heart attack, or surgery. Doctors, nurses, and aides are readily available, and the staff-to-patient ratio is high due to the level of care provided. In addition, occupational, physical, and speech therapists are often on staff to help slow the progression of chronic conditions.
Who lives in nursing homes?
According to the article “Nursing Homes” on HealthinAging.org:
- Almost half of all people who live in nursing homes are 85 years or older
- Relatively few residents are younger than 65 years of age
- Most are women (72%), many of whom do not have a spouse (almost 70% are widowed, divorced, or were never married)
- Many also have only a small group of family members and friends for support
Most residents of nursing homes live there permanently, due to the fact they require constant care and supervision. However, some people stay there for a short time after being in a hospital. Once they recover, they return home.
Don’t let the term “nursing home” conjure up bad images
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requires each state to inspect any nursing home that receives funding from the government. In “How to Choose a Nursing Home,” the National Institue on Aging states that homes that don’t pass inspection are not certified. Ask to see the current inspection report and certification of any nursing home you are considering. If you do your homework, you can have confidence your loved one’s needs will be met.
Download our free guide: Senior Living Options – A Guide for Understanding Which Level of Care is the Best Fit.
Senior living communities: an emphasis on life enrichment and independence
Independence. Wellness. Carefree living. Senior living communities are dedicated to offering older adults a stimulating and enriching environment that encourages engagement and personal growth.
In fact, today’s active older adults consider a move to senior living as a lifestyle choice; an opportunity to take advantage of the services, amenities and opportunities now, while they are still healthy and independent, knowing they have access to health services before they need them.
Several lifestyle options are often available in senior living communities, as well as levels of care, such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation services and respite care. Residents can enjoy the confidence of knowing a helping hand is always available 24/7, yet the ambiance is geared to maintaining independence for as long as possible.
Residents of senior living communities may expect:
- A vibrant, lively atmosphere filled with activity, convenience, comfort and entertainment.
- A variety of accommodations that may include private apartments, cottages or townhomes.
- Amenities such as a choice of dining venues, pool, fitness center, library, salon and barber shop, card and game rooms, movie theatre, private dining room, outdoor spaces for walking and socializing, and more.
- An emphasis on healthy aging and lifelong wellness that includes mind, body and spirit.
- A range of lifestyle options within the community, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation services and respite care. This continuum of care is available at St. Mark Village, giving you seamless access to future health care options and peace of mind for the future.
Consider the options, then choose which is right for your needs
If you are seeking skilled nursing for a loved one, we are here to assist you. At St. Mark Village, our team includes our dedicated on-site Medical Director who specializes in geriatric medicine. In addition, Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), and therapists also are part of the team.
Additional expertise comes from the staff in our Life Enrichment, Social Services, Admissions, Culinary Services, Housekeeping, and our Physical Plant Operations departments, all working together to support our residents, while providing answers and guidance to their loved ones.
Dedicated to improving the lives of our residents through quality care. Download our free guide: Senior Living Options – A Guide for Understanding Which Level of Care is the Best Fit. Or contact us. We’d love to hear from you.
