Navigating care options for a loved one can be overwhelming, especially when trying to choose between assisted living and nursing home care. These two options differ quite a bit in the level of support they provide, the costs involved, and what’s covered by insurance. And for families considering or currently receiving hospice support, understanding how hospice can enhance care in either setting adds another important layer.
Assisted Living: Independence with a Helping Hand
Assisted living is ideal for people who need help with daily tasks but want to maintain as much independence as possible. In these communities, residents have access to personalized assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Many assisted living facilities offer social events, fitness activities, and communal meals, creating a supportive and engaging environment that encourages residents to stay active and connected.
Cost: Assisted living is generally more affordable than nursing home care, with an average cost of about $4,500 per month. However, because Medicare and Medicaid typically don’t cover assisted living, most costs are out-of-pocket, unless the resident has long-term care insurance.
Nursing Facilities: Comprehensive Medical Support
Nursing homes, or skilled nursing facilities, are more suitable for people who require constant medical supervision and specialized care. These facilities provide 24/7 support from licensed medical professionals, including nurses and doctors, making them ideal for those with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or recent major surgeries. Nursing homes also provide therapies, rehabilitative care, and other medical services tailored to individual needs.
Cost: The average cost for a nursing home is higher, at around $7,900 per month for a semi-private room. Medicare can cover nursing home stays after a qualifying hospital visit, but only for a limited time. Beyond that, costs may be covered by Medicaid (for those who qualify), long-term care insurance, or out-of-pocket expenses.
How Hospice Care Enhances Support in Assisted Living and Nursing Facilities
Whether a loved one resides in an assisted living or nursing home setting, hospice care can bring an added layer of comfort, support, and relief. At Sonder Hospice, we understand that when a person reaches a stage where curative treatments are no longer the goal, what matters most is making every day as comfortable and meaningful as possible.
Hospice support doesn’t replace the care provided in these facilities; rather, it complements it. Here’s how:
- Symptom and Pain Management: Sonder’s hospice team specializes in managing symptoms like pain, shortness of breath, and anxiety. Our dedicated nurses, aides, and therapists visit regularly, providing comfort measures that help residents feel as well as possible. This kind of specialized care can relieve some of the caregiving burdens from facility staff, ensuring every need is met.
- Emotional and Spiritual Support: Facing advanced illness can be emotionally challenging for patients and their families. Sonder Hospice offers emotional and spiritual support, including grief counseling and bereavement support for family members. Our team is there to listen, provide companionship, and address emotional needs, helping residents and families find peace in difficult times.
- Education and Guidance: Our hospice team works with families to make sure they understand their loved one’s condition and options, offering practical advice and compassionate guidance. This helps families feel confident and supported in their decisions and can alleviate some of the stress that often comes with caregiving.
- Coordination with Facility Staff: Sonder Hospice collaborates closely with the staff at assisted living and nursing facilities. Our team communicates regularly with facility caregivers, ensuring everyone is on the same page and aligned in care goals. This integrated approach improves the quality and consistency of care, making sure residents receive the attention they deserve.
Why Early Hospice Involvement Matters
Starting hospice care sooner rather than later can lead to better outcomes and higher quality of life for residents in both assisted living and nursing home settings. Our hospice team is here to help manage symptoms early, reducing the need for emergency hospital visits and making it easier for residents to stay comfortable right where they are.
Sonder Hospice is Here to Help
If you’re considering assisted living or nursing home care for a loved one, or if you’re already navigating this journey, know that you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, offering expertise, compassion, and personalized care that makes a difference. Reach out to Sonder Hospice today to learn how we can provide peace of mind and comfort for you and your loved one.