The truth is, senior care isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a network of services designed to meet people where they are. Think of the senior care network as a spectrum — from light support to full-time medical care. Whether your loved one needs a little extra support or round-the-clock medical care, the right environment can make all the difference. 

River Garden is here to help you explore your options and find a care solution that works — emotionally, medically and financially.

Understand the Levels of Care Available

Making the right choice between skilled nursing and assisted living or home care can feel overwhelming.  All offer important services for seniors, but they meet very different needs.  Understanding the difference — and the options for covering costs — can help you make the best decision for your family’s future.

What Is Skilled Nursing?

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs, acronym pronounced ‘sniffs’) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed medical professionals. This option is best for those who have more complex needs, are recovering from surgery, illness or injury or require long-term care services.  For long-term care, River Garden becomes a new home for your loved one.

The terms skilled nursing facility and nursing home are often used interchangeably.  In practice, many nursing homes are also licensed skilled nursing facilities — so while the terms overlap, ‘skilled nursing’ emphasizes the medical and rehabilitative aspect, whereas ‘nursing home’ often refers to long-term custodial and residential care. Memory care in a SNF offers a full range nursing services.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is ideal for individuals who need some help with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, meal preparation, medication reminders and housekeeping. These communities generally offer group dining and activities, as they focus on social engagement.  Memory care offered in an assisted living facility has, by state regulation, different requirements for staffing and certain limitations on the nursing care services that can be provided.

What Is Home Care?

For those who wish to remain living independent in the community, private duty home care services are available.  These services may be able to provide assistance with many activities of daily living (ADLs) like dressing, showering, bathing and meal preparation.  The costs of private care in your home can add up quickly. Be sure to check what services you will be provided and when, plus whether a paid caregiver is licensed and insured.

How to Choose What’s Right for You

When deciding, ask:

• How much care is needed daily?  How many hours are needed for the care you hope to receive?
• Is the goal to maintain independence or receive clinical oversight and care?
• Are there serious medical conditions involved?
• What is the family (or close friends) willing to do to fill the gaps?