As our senior loved ones age, their needs and care requirements may change. While assisted living facilities provide support and assistance for seniors, there may come a time when your senior loved one requires a higher level of daily care, making a move to a nursing home necessary. Making the decision to transition from assisted living to a nursing home can be challenging, but it is important to ensure that seniors receive the appropriate level of care and support. To learn more about the transition to a nursing home, read our comprehensive guide below or reach out to the Sunbound team for more information. 

Understanding the Differences: Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home

Before delving into when it may be appropriate to consider a move, it is essential to understand the differences between assisted living and nursing home facilities. Assisted living communities offer a lower level of care, providing assistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and meal preparation. Residents live in private rooms or apartments and have access to communal areas for socialization and meals. While assisted living facilities may have medical staff available, they are not typically equipped to provide 24-hour medical care.

On the other hand, nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. Residents live in semi-private or private rooms and have access to communal areas. Nursing homes have licensed nurses and certified nursing assistants who are trained to provide skilled nursing care, administer medications, and manage medical equipment.

Signs That It May Be Time to Consider a Move

While each individual's situation is unique, there are several signs that may indicate it is time to consider a move from assisted living to a nursing home for your loved one:

Declining Health and the Need for 24-Hour Care

If your loved one's health is deteriorating, and they require round-the-clock medical care and supervision, assisted living facilities may not be able to provide the necessary level of support. Nursing homes have the resources and staff to address complex medical needs, such as wound care, IV fluids or antibiotics, injections, respiratory care, and mobility assistance. The comprehensive care offered in nursing homes ensures the safety and well-being of seniors with declining health.

Severe Cognitive Decline or Dementia

Seniors with severe cognitive decline, such as end-stage Alzheimer's or other neurological conditions, may require specialized care that is better provided in a nursing home setting. Nursing homes have staff trained in managing challenging behaviors, providing maximum assistance with activities of daily living, and creating a safe and secure environment for seniors with dementia. The expertise and resources available in nursing homes can help ensure the comfort and quality of life for individuals with severe cognitive decline.

Complex Medical Needs Requiring Skilled Nursing Care

Assisted living facilities are not equipped to handle complex medical conditions that require specialized care and oversight. If your loved one has conditions such as diabetes, COPD, heart or lung conditions, cancer, or requires regular administration of medications or wound care, a nursing home may be the more appropriate choice. Nursing homes have skilled medical staff who can provide the necessary medical interventions, monitor vital signs, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals.

Increased Dependence and Need for Two-Person Assistance

When a senior becomes increasingly dependent on others for mobility and requires two-person assistance for activities such as walking and transferring, it may be an indication that assisted living facilities can no longer meet their needs. Nursing homes have the trained staff and resources to provide the necessary assistance, ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors with limited mobility.

Frequent Hospitalizations and Medical Instability

If your loved one is frequently hospitalized due to recurrent infections, worsening chronic conditions, or the inability to rehabilitate, nursing home care may provide a more stable and supportive environment. Nursing homes can provide the necessary medical care and monitoring to help seniors recover and stabilize without the strain of repeated hospital stays. The availability of 24-hour nursing care in nursing homes ensures that seniors receive immediate attention and prompt medical interventions when needed.

Swallowing Issues and Dietary Restrictions

Seniors with swallowing difficulties or dietary restrictions may require specialized supervision and assistance during meals. Nursing homes have designated dining areas for residents with swallowing issues and can provide the necessary one-on-one supervision to ensure proper nutrition and prevent choking hazards. This level of specialized care may not be feasible in assisted living facilities.

Bedridden or Limited Mobility

If your loved one becomes bedridden due to conditions such as mobility problems, infections, or general debility, the intensive care and assistance required may exceed the capabilities of assisted living facilities. Nursing homes have the resources and trained staff to provide the necessary care for bedridden individuals, including toileting, assistance with eating, turning to prevent bedsores, and personal grooming.

Financial Limitations and Medicaid Eligibility

If financial resources are limited and your loved one qualifies for Medicaid, nursing home care may be a viable option. Medicaid covers the cost of nursing home care for eligible individuals, ensuring that seniors receive the necessary level of care and support. Nursing homes that accept Medicaid provide comprehensive services and can be a suitable choice for seniors with limited financial means.

Inadequate Care and Support in Assisted Living

If your loved one's assisted living facility is unable to provide the quality or type of care they require, it may be necessary to explore alternative options such as a nursing home. Nursing homes have licensed nurses who oversee residents' medical care, coordinate with other healthcare professionals, and ensure that the appropriate level of care is provided. The comprehensive care and support available in nursing homes can help meet your loved one's specific needs.

Finding the Right Nursing Home

When considering a move from assisted living to a nursing home, it is crucial to find the right facility that meets your loved one's needs. Here are some tips to help you in your search:

Research and Visit: Conduct thorough research on nursing homes in your area, read reviews, and visit the facilities in person to assess the environment, cleanliness, and quality of care provided.

Staff Expertise: Inquire about the qualifications and training of the nursing home staff, including nurses, certified nursing assistants, and therapists. Ensure that the facility has a sufficient number of staff to meet residents' needs.

Specialized Care: If your loved one has specific medical conditions or needs, inquire about the nursing home's ability to provide specialized care, such as dementia care, rehabilitation services, or palliative care.

Safety and Security: Assess the safety measures in place, including emergency response systems, security protocols, and fall prevention strategies.

Activities and Socialization: Inquire about the nursing home's activities and socialization programs to ensure that your loved one will have opportunities for engagement and social interaction.

Residents' Rights and Privacy: Understand the nursing home's policies regarding residents' rights, privacy, and decision-making autonomy.

Financial Considerations: Discuss the cost of care, payment options, and any available financial assistance programs or insurance coverage.

Family Involvement: Consider the nursing home's policies on family involvement, visitation hours, and communication with family members.

Deciding when to move from assisted living to a nursing home is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your loved one's changing needs and care requirements. By recognizing the signs that it may be time for a move and understanding the differences between assisted living and nursing home care, you can make an informed decision that ensures the safety, well-being, and quality of life for your senior. Take the time to research and find the right nursing home that can provide the necessary level of care and support to meet your loved one's unique needs.

To learn more about how Sunbound can help make senior care more affordable for you or your loved one, send us an email at info@sunboundhomes.com or request more information on Sunbound. Sunbound is the best way to pay for senior living and senior care and is on a mission to make senior living affordable for everyone.