What Is the Difference Between Home Care and Assisted Living?
Home care and assisted living both help seniors with daily needs, but they differ in setting, scope, and cost. Home care provides one-on-one assistance in the senior’s house, while assisted living offers a residential community with meals, activities, and 24/7 staff. Wichita families often weigh both options when planning for long-term safety and quality of life.
At Keepsake Kottage Home Plus, we help families compare choices to find the best fit for their loved one.
What Home Care Provides
Home care is delivered in the senior’s own residence and may include…
- Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
- Meal preparation, housekeeping, and errands
- Medication reminders (depending on provider licensing)
- Companionship and transportation
Services are flexible but depend on caregiver availability and scheduling.
What Assisted Living Provides
Assisted living is a residential community where seniors live in private or semi-private apartments while receiving support such as…
- 24/7 staff for safety and oversight
- Meals, housekeeping, and laundry
- Help with ADLs such as bathing and dressing
- Medication administration per policy
- Planned social activities and wellness programs
Cost Comparison
Home care is typically billed hourly. Costs add up quickly if a senior requires many hours of daily assistance. Assisted living, on the other hand, charges a monthly fee that bundles housing, meals, and care. In Wichita, families often find assisted living more cost-efficient for seniors needing daily or round-the-clock support.
Who Benefits Most from Each Option
- Home Care – Best for seniors needing light support, who prefer to remain at home, and who have reliable family or professional caregivers available.
- Assisted Living – Ideal for seniors needing daily help, safety oversight, and opportunities for socialization in a community setting.
How Keepsake Kottage Supports Wichita Families
Keepsake Kottage Home Plus offers licensed assisted living in a home-like environment. Families considering home care versus assisted living often find our smaller setting provides the comfort of home with the added safety of 24/7 support.
Visit us: 8428 W 13th St N, Ste 130, Wichita, KS | (316) 650-4526
FAQs: Home Care vs Assisted Living
Which is cheaper: home care or assisted living?
Hourly home care may be cheaper for limited needs, but assisted living is often more cost-effective for daily or 24-hour support.
Can home care transition into assisted living?
Yes. Families may start with home care and move into assisted living when needs increase.
Which provides more social opportunities?
Assisted living provides more structured activities and built-in social life compared to home care.
We have an amazing wellness center also:
Please see Elevate Wellness at Keepsake Kottage to learn more!
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or medical advice. Policies and coverage vary. Always confirm details with providers and professionals before making care decisions.
Social Life and Lifestyle Differences
Home care allows seniors to stay in familiar surroundings but may increase isolation if they live alone. Assisted living provides built-in opportunities for socialization, group activities, and peer support, which often improves mood and engagement.