As our loved ones age, the question of where and how they will receive care becomes  paramount. Families often find themselves at a crossroad, contemplating the merits of assisted living vs. home care. 

Generally, assisted living or home care is needed when an older adult could benefit from some support with the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and assistance with medication.  

At Cascade Living Group, we aim to equip families and caregivers with the information needed to facilitate open and honest conversations, enabling them to make informed decisions that prioritize the highest quality of life for their aging loved ones.

In this blog post, we will explore both options, shedding light on crucial factors like safety, socialization, healthcare needs, and cost. Our hope is you’ll find comfort in learning more about all the benefits of assisted living and how it can provide you peace of mind and comfort. 

Safety

Assisted Living

Assisted living communities like ours are designed with the safety of seniors in mind. From handrails in hallways to emergency response systems, these communities offer a secure environment. Trained staff is available around-the-clock, providing assistance with activities of daily living and responding promptly to emergencies. Family members can rest easy knowing their loved one is being checked on regularly. 

Home Care

Aging in place can be achieved with modifications to the home or medical alert systems, but it may not offer the same level of safety as assisted living. Factors like accessibility, fall hazards, and emergency response can vary. While home health caregivers can be hired to provide support, 24/7 monitoring might pose challenges, both with scheduling and expense.

Socialization

Assisted Living

Assisted living communities foster socialization through planned activities, communal dining, and shared spaces. Seniors have the opportunity to build relationships, participate in group events, and combat isolation.

At Cascade Living Group communities, there are always meaningful opportunities to engage with fellow residents, staff members, and visitors. Beyond our activity calendars, our welcoming dining areas offer daily engagement with others.  

Home Care

Aging at home may risk social isolation, especially if family members are not consistently available. While caregivers can offer companionship, the structured social environment of assisted living is often missing.

Healthcare Needs

Assisted Living

Many assisted living communities like ours have healthcare services on-site. This can include regular checkups, medication management, and even rehabilitation services. Many seniors benefit from having medical assistance readily available.

Additionally, personalized care is part of what a resident can expect at a Cascade Living Group community. We know one size does not fit all, and we’re here to help develop the best care plan for each individual. EverWell is our wellness philosophy, where we provide residents with easy access to the services and care they need to stay healthy—longer.

Home Care

Home care allows for personalized attention, but healthcare services may need to be arranged separately. Regular medical visits, medication management, and therapy sessions may require additional coordination. The cost of care can be higher for in-home visits as well. 

Cost and Financial Considerations

Assisted Living

The cost of assisted living covers accommodation, dining, services, and much more. As a comprehensive package, it can be financially advantageous compared to piecemeal home care services.

In fact, many families find that the cost of home healthcare and household expenses end up being more than the cost of assisted living. Cascade Living Group has a variety of tools to help you navigate the finances of senior living.  

Home Care

Home care expenses can vary depending on the level of assistance needed. While it may seem more cost-effective initially, the cumulative cost of hiring caregivers, modifying the home, and potential medical expenses can add up quickly. 

Evaluating Needs and Preferences

Before making a decision, it’s crucial to assess the specific needs and preferences of your loved one. Consider their mobility, cognitive function, medical conditions, and social desires. Additionally, involve them in the decision-making process, respecting their autonomy and preferences.

As you consider your next step, we encourage you to schedule a tour of an assisted living community like ours to truly get a feel for the warm and welcoming environment. 

Tips for Honest Conversations

Below are four of our favorite tips to help you navigate this dialogue about assisted living with your loved one:

• Initiate the conversation early, allowing everyone to express their concerns and expectations.
• Be open to compromise and explore hybrid solutions that combine aspects of both assisted living and home care.
• Involve your loved one in the decision-making process, respecting their autonomy and preferences.
• Consider the long-term implications, and revisit the decision as needs evolve.

Choosing between assisted living and home care is a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages, addressing safety, socialization, healthcare needs, and cost all matter as you foster open communication, and you will be equipped to make informed choices that prioritize the well-being and quality of life of your aging loved ones. 

Remember, the best solution is one that aligns with the unique needs and preferences of the individual, providing them with a safe, supportive, and fulfilling environment as they navigate the journey of aging.

Cascade Living Group: Assisted Living That Feels Like Home

Supporting families and seniors is at the heart of what we do. Our assisted living communities ensure residents have a homelike environment where they are given the care they need, the activities to keep them engaged, and the support of an experienced team of professionals. Locate the community nearest you and come for a visit to see our welcoming and supportive lifestyle.