Whether it’s due to a medical condition, safety concerns, or an inability to care for themselves, there may come a time when families and individuals have to address care needs for themselves or an older loved one.

Typically, the choice comes down to moving to an assisted living community or hiring an in-home caregiver. While they both have their benefits, it’s about finding the option that fits your family’s needs and goals.

Franklin Park® Senior Living offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services at our luxury communities throughout San Antonio, Texas. We’re sharing some information on senior living and home care and how to know which option is best for your family.

What is Assisted Living? 

Assisted living communities are residential care facilities where residents receive care and support with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, and transferring. These communities also have additional services and amenities like dining, transportation, fitness centers, and daily events and programming. Assisted living communities are known for providing an ideal balance of care and attention with independence and freedom.

What is Home Care? 

Home care, also called in-home care or home health, is when a family hires an in-home caregiver through an agency or other service to provide daily care to an older family member. These services can range from a few hours of care a day to a full-time, live-in caregiver. Most often, in-home caregivers help with activities of daily living but can also offer assistance with household chores, companionship, or other errands.

Understanding the Differences 

Care 

In-home caregivers can provide individuals with consistent, one-on-one care, but unless they are a live-in caregiver, they are not available 24/7. On the other hand, assisted living communities offer round-the-clock care and attention, even if it is a different shift of caregivers throughout the day. In both options, caregivers are highly-trained and compassionate individuals.

Safety

Assisted living communities are designed with specific safety and security features that allow families to have peace of mind. These communities are equipped with safety bars, comfortable lighting, and emergency response systems in resident apartments. If an individual decides to remain at home, modifications may have to be made to ensure the house is as safe as possible.

Socialization 

When many people seek care for their aging parent or family member, their priority is almost always physical health and safety. While these things are undoubtedly important, mental wellness and socialization are just as essential. With an in-home caregiver, an individual will receive a companion, but at an assisted living community, they will be continuously surrounded by peers and new friends, engaging in social activities and community programming.

Price

Direct costs between community living and in-home care are often difficult to compare, as many factors determine pricing, like where you live and how much care is needed. Typically, assisted living communities will be more affordable for what is offered, including round-the-clock care, meals, and community activities. On the other hand, in-home caregivers are typically paid by the hour, which can become expensive over time.

Choosing What’s Right for You 

When it comes to senior care, there’s no one right choice for families; it just depends on your specific needs and preferences. There are benefits to aging in place at home, but there are also benefits to moving into a lively and supportive assisted living community.

Life at Franklin Park®

At Franklin Park® Senior Living, we offer individuals and families in San Antonio, Texas, independent living, assisted living, and memory care services. Our communities deliver care and support in a welcoming environment with the look and feel of a luxury resort.

We also provide exceptional assistance, convenient services, and impressive amenities, like a beauty salon, pools and fitness centers, private apartments with full-size kitchens, and on-site health services. Our communities are vibrant and exciting places, with daily activities, special events, and exciting opportunities! We help individuals genuinely make the most of their senior living experience.

If you’re interested in learning more about Franklin Park® Senior Living, our communities in San Antonio, or if assisted living is right for you or a family member, we invite you to contact our team today!