What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes?
Assisted living and nursing homes both serve seniors, but they meet very different needs. Assisted living focuses on daily support in a home-like setting, while nursing homes provide 24/7 licensed medical care. Wichita families weighing options should consider lifestyle, level of care, and cost when deciding what’s best.
Need guidance? Visit Keepsake Kottage Home Plus or call (316) 650-4526 to explore assisted living in Wichita.
Levels of Care
Assisted Living
- Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, meals, mobility
- Medication reminders and basic health oversight
- 24/7 staff for safety but not continuous skilled nursing
- Coordination with home health, therapy, or hospice as needed
Nursing Homes
- 24/7 licensed nursing staff on site
- Management of complex medical conditions and unstable health needs
- Post-hospital rehabilitation and ongoing skilled therapies
- Medical treatments such as wound care, IV therapy, or advanced monitoring
Lifestyle and Environment
Assisted living is designed for independence with support. Residents enjoy private or semi-private rooms, home-cooked meals, activities, and social engagement. Nursing homes feel more clinical, with hospital-like settings and a stronger medical focus.
Cost Differences
- Assisted Living – Typically less expensive. Costs often cover room, meals, daily care, and activities.
- Nursing Homes – More costly due to 24/7 medical staffing and specialized equipment.
Medicare fully covers neither. Medicare may cover short-term skilled nursing care after hospitalization, but not long-term custodial care.
Who Benefits Most from Each Option
- Assisted Living – Seniors who need daily help but want independence, social life, and a residential setting.
- Nursing Homes – Seniors with complex medical needs requiring licensed nursing and 24/7 monitoring.
Transition Considerations
Families often start with assisted living and add outside supports. Transition to a nursing home is considered when health needs exceed what assisted living can legally and safely provide.
How Keepsake Kottage Supports Wichita Families
Keepsake Kottage Home Plus offers a smaller, home-like assisted living environment. We provide…
- Personalized care plans
- Medication reminders and daily support
- Nutritious meals and activities
- Coordination with external providers when needed
FAQs: Assisted Living vs Nursing Homes
Is assisted living the same as a nursing home?
No. Assisted living offers daily support and independence, while nursing homes provide 24/7 medical care for complex health needs.
Which is more expensive?
Nursing homes are usually more expensive because of continuous licensed medical staffing and specialized equipment.
Does Medicare cover either option?
Medicare may cover short-term skilled nursing after hospitalization, but not long-term stays in either assisted living or nursing homes.
How do I decide?
Match care to needs – assisted living for daily support and independence; nursing homes for medical supervision and complex care.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical, legal, or financial advice. Policies vary by provider and may change. Always confirm coverage and services with the community and your healthcare team.
