HOMES

by gail matillo

skilled nursing care around the clock. Without assisted living, there was no transition between those two extremes; seniors either moved into nursing homes way too early or stayed at home until the need for nursing care was too significant.

We’ve always known each senior’s wants and needs are different, and some may need more care than others. The beauty of our business is our ability to focus specifically on the residents’ needs and wants while still allowing them to enjoy and maintain a degree of independence. Because we can offer such customized care, it really is true that “when you’ve seen one ALF, you’ve seen one ALF…” because we’re all so unique!

Unlike nursing homes, assisted living can offer significant amenities, building that true sense of community. From spas, hair salons, theatres, restaurants and bars to pools, fitness centers, golf courses and personal services, these environments are appealing because they feel like home. The clinical environments in nursing homes simply can’t offer those options.

The process of payments is also substantially different between assisted living communities and nursing homes. Nursing homes usually bill Medicare for medical expenses and Medicaid for the long-term care. On the other hand, most assisted living communities are private pay. They also may be covered by long-term care insurance or different aid and assistance programs, for Veterans.

Making long-term care decisions can be overwhelming, which is where assisted living can ease the prospect of moving into a new home. Adult children who may have felt anxious about moving a parent into a community may feel better knowing they are moving mom or dad into a neighborhood with amenities instead of a clinical environment. And older adults may not resist this transition as much because they’ll be able to maintain their independence, choice and dignity.

It’s important to understand the relationship between assisted living communities and nursing homes because it is possible a resident may transition from assisted living to a skilled nursing facility if they need additional medical care. Long-term care truly is a continuum that works best when there are graduated options available. By helping people understand each option, we can help ensure senior citizens can make educated decisions about the type of long-term care that is best suited for their needs.

gail matillo , mpa President/CEO Florida Senior Living Association