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Nursing Home Alternatives: 3 Better Options for Your Loved One

Peter Brissette • May 24, 2021

 

Are you reluctantly considering a nursing home for your mom, dad or spouse? You may have heard bad things about nursing home care and are looking for alternatives to nursing homes. While nursing homes are often the “catch all” for all aging issues, not all older adults need to live in a nursing home to receive a high level of care. And receiving a dementia diagnosis does not automatically mean that the person needs to be in a nursing home. There are other options for family members or friends who need assistance from caregivers but are wary of nursing homes. A nursing home is not your only option!

It may be that a beloved elderly family member has been living on their own, but they now need help with the activities of daily living (ADLs). You may be having trouble giving your spouse sufficient home care. Or perhaps a family member or friend has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or some other form of dementia. These are all difficult circumstances for any family.

At Assured Assisted Living, we understand the challenge of finding quality care, especially for individuals who suffer with dementia, and we’re here to help. Here are three nursing home alternatives to consider.

Why Do Many Elderly People Not Like Nursing Homes?

It may be an elderly person doesn’t want to move from a home that they’ve lived in for many years. They may be averse to change. But there have also been many stories about the problems in nursing homes, such as neglect, stolen personal items, medication issues and even abuse.

What Are the Facts About Nursing Homes?

Some nursing homes are better than others. However, there are inherent problems with large institutional facilities. A nursing home will likely have a high patient to nurse/aide ratio—that is, a caregiver may be responsible for many patients at once. This leads to less personalized senior care and possibly even accidents and negligence. Federal data has shown that most nursing homes in the U.S. had insufficient staffing to ensure quality patient care.

Top complaints of nursing home residents include slow response to calls, poor food quality, shortage of workers, lack of social interaction and sleep disruptions. Most nursing homes are in large, institutional settings that are more like a hospital than a private home, with many residents and not enough caregivers to provide individualized attention. They may have some activities for their long-term residents, but with overwhelmed, low-paid staff, the focus may be on attending to basic needs, rather than trying to enhance their quality of life through meaningful engagement.

Are There Alternatives to Nursing Homes?

There are certainly nursing home care alternatives worth considering. Some seniors stay at home and have family members or friends as caregivers. Others hire live-in or 24-hour assistants. There are also adult foster care options, board and care homes and assisted living facilities.

Alternatives to Nursing Homes

Nursing homes are designed for those with acute or long-term medical needs, but many older adults just need support for ADLs. When thinking about home care options, consider your loved one’s needs and preferences. Do they like to be in a large community of people, or do they prefer a smaller family setting? Do they enjoy interacting with others? If they are resistant to leaving their home setting, even if would be beneficial for them, try to determine what their concerns are. Some seniors simply don’t like change—even if it’s a change for the better. Other seniors may want a home-like environment and not a hospital setting or institution.

Here are three nursing home alternatives for long-term senior care as well as long-term care for others who have been diagnosed with dementia or another type of debilitating illness.

1. Caring for a Loved One at Home

In-home care allows the person to stay in the familiar surroundings of their own home and be cared for by a spouse, child or another family member. It may seem like the ideal solution, and in many cases, it is—at least for a while. This type of caregiving, while suitable for certain individuals, may become unmanageable if the person’s condition worsens, such as during the late stages of dementia. Caring for a person with advanced dementia can be extremely stressful, leading to “caregiver burnout.” Respite care to relieve the primary caregiver may be available, but this would only be for a short period of time. With in-home care, there may be limited opportunity for social activities.

Live-in Care or 24-Hour Home Care are two other in-home care options, but they can both be expensive, you may not always be able to have the same caregiver, and there will likely be minimal interaction with others outside of the caregiver(s).

2. Adult Foster Care or Board and Care Home

These are long-term care options for seniors and others who have illnesses such as dementia that puts their needs for assistance between staying at home and living in a nursing facility. Adult foster care is provided at someone’s home and usually serves two to three seniors, for more personalized care services. They provide meals, help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and organized activities. Unlike an assisted living community, they are not required to have someone awake around the clock. Rules may vary, according to state regulations.

Board and care homes, also known as residential care homes or group homes, are like adult foster care, in that they provide assistance in a smaller residence. These care homes are often modified to suit the needs of seniors and residents with dementia, such as accessibility ramps and safety features. They usually house fewer than 10 residents in a single home. As with adult foster care, board and care homes are best suited for those with early- and middle-stage dementia who don’t require 24-hour supervision. They may have fewer structured activities and opportunities for socialization.

Adult foster care and board and care homes are preferable to nursing homes, as they provide care in a private home setting. However, when it comes to dementia sufferers, they’re only appropriate for the early stages of the illness. You may be forced to relocate your loved one a second time.

3. Assisted Living Community

An assisted living community is a long-term care option that provides seniors with basic assistance for their ADLs, and they usually reside in a studio or apartment. These care facilities aren’t designed for individuals with dementia, but they may be suitable when the illness is in its early stages. Residents are required to have a certain degree of independence, although meals are provided in a common dining room, there are some structured activities and residents are assisted with medical issues. Unlike the smaller private homes, there is 24-hour supervision, and a staff member is always available.

There are specialized care services known as memory care, which is assisted living for seniors and others who have dementia. This can be a wing of a larger assisted living community, or it may be a dedicated residence. With memory care facilities, the staff is specially trained to assist and communicate with those who have dementia. This isn’t your standard level of senior care, as those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia require caregivers that are sensitive to their special needs.

Assured Assisted Living: The Unique Nursing Home Alternative

At Assured Assisted Living , we offer the best of all worlds for seniors and others with Alzheimer’s and related type of dementia. We provide personalized, continuous care for all care levels, with 24-hour home care in a home-like environment.

At Assured, we offer:


  • A warm, loving family unit with dedicated caregivers and fewer residents for a higher level of personalized care.
  • A comfortable setting in purpose-built ranch style homes, located in beautiful residential neighborhoods.
  • Assistance with all ADLs, from bathing and dressing to eating and toileting.
  • A Montessori Activities program that is recommended for those with dementia. This includes engagement through art therapy and music therapy.
  • All-inclusive pricing that includes all living expenses and provides continuous care with no changes in cost, through all care levels.
  • We use Serenity Engage — a HIPPA compliant app to ensure safe, secure communication between the family and our team.

We are constantly innovating and pushing our best practices to improve our care for our residents. Contact Assured Assisted Living to learn more about our specialized care services.


 

Understanding the Different Types of Senior Living Communities: Finding the Best Fit for Your Needs

December 12, 2025
Navigating the landscape of senior living communities can be overwhelming, particularly when searching for the ideal fit for yourself or a loved one. Each community type offers unique services, amenities, and levels of care tailored to varying needs and preferences. Seniors and their families require accurate and transparent information to make informed decisions. Choosing the right environment directly impacts long-term wellness, social connection, and independence. A clear understanding of each community's structure and focus helps minimize stress and ensures appropriate care. Many families begin researching during periods of transition or crisis, which can add urgency to the process. Planning and being aware of available options reassure seniors and their support networks. Starting with a comprehensive comparison can simplify a complex and emotional decision. Independent Senior Living Communities Independent senior living communities support seniors who can manage their care but prefer fewer responsibilities at home. Most communities offer maintenance-free residences with access to communal meals, housekeeping services, and organized events. Residents appreciate the freedom to come and go while enjoying added security and convenience. These communities foster friendships and daily interaction, which helps reduce isolation. Most independent living communities do not offer regular medical care, but may include wellness programs or optional support services. Residents enjoy greater privacy while having emergency response systems and supportive staff nearby. The design of these communities encourages healthy social engagement and continued independence. Structured yet flexible lifestyles enable seniors to maintain autonomy while accessing necessary assistance. Monthly fees usually cover utilities, amenities, and services, providing predictable expenses for budgeting purposes. Seniors benefit from simplified financial management and fewer unexpected home-related costs. A wide range of recreational and educational activities encourages residents to pursue interests and stay mentally active. Pet-friendly policies and customizable services further enhance resident satisfaction. Prospective residents should visit several communities to observe culture, cleanliness, and daily life firsthand. Talking with residents and staff provides insights into how well the community supports personal goals. Location, dining options, and transportation access should factor into your final decision. Selecting a community that matches your lifestyle ensures long-term happiness. Assisted Senior Living Communities  Senior living communities cater to older adults who require assistance with daily activities but wish to remain active and engaged. Residents typically receive help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management, while living in private or semi-private accommodations. Trained staff always remain available to respond to needs quickly and compassionately. Residents enjoy a supportive environment that doesn’t feel overly restrictive.

The Future of Senior Living: Innovations in Technology and Design

December 9, 2025
Senior living is transforming, driven by technological advancements and evolving design philosophies. As the aging population grows, there is an increasing demand for environments that provide care and enhance the quality of life. Modern senior living communities embrace innovations promoting independence, safety, and engagement, ensuring residents lead fulfilling lives. Communities adopt holistic approaches that merge innovation with compassion to improve elder care from every angle. Changes in senior living extend far beyond digital gadgets and contemporary buildings. Facilities are now reimagining how care environments support every dimension of resident health and satisfaction. Architects and care teams collaborate to reframe care from a passive to a participatory approach. Living spaces are becoming platforms for engagement, wellness, and daily autonomy. Embracing Smart Technology for Enhanced Living Integrating innovative technology in senior living communities is revolutionizing how care is delivered. Wearable health monitors , for instance, enable real-time tracking of vital signs, allowing for prompt medical responses when necessary. Such devices empower residents to manage their health actively, fostering a sense of autonomy. Facilities are leveraging technology not as a substitute for human care, but as a vital enhancement to resident safety and wellness.  Telehealth services have become increasingly prevalent, offering residents convenient access to healthcare professionals without traveling. Seniors benefit from fewer delays, reduced exposure to illness, and more consistent care routines. Care providers are meeting residents where they are, rather than requiring them to adapt to rigid healthcare models.

Senior Scams and Fraud Prevention: Protecting Your Loved Ones from Financial Exploitation

December 4, 2025
Financial exploitation is a growing concern for seniors, often leading to devastating consequences. As individuals age, they may become more vulnerable to senior scams due to social isolation, cognitive decline, or unfamiliarity with technology. Recognizing and addressing these risks is crucial to safeguarding their well-being. Understanding the types of scams and implementing preventive measures can significantly protect seniors from financial harm. Assisted living communities are pivotal in educating and protecting residents from scams. By fostering an environment of awareness and vigilance, these communities can help seniors navigate the complexities of modern fraud tactics. Staff training and resident education are crucial in establishing a robust defense against financial exploitation. Through collective efforts, the safety and security of seniors can be significantly enhanced. Understanding Common Senior Scams Scammers often target seniors with various fraudulent schemes to exploit their trust and financial resources. Common senior scams include impersonation of government officials, fraudulent investment opportunities, and deceptive tech support calls. These tactics are crafted to appear legitimate, making it challenging for seniors to discern the truth. Awareness of these common scams is the first step in prevention.  Another prevalent scam involves fraudsters posing as distressed family members, requesting urgent financial assistance. This emotional manipulation can compel seniors to act hastily without verifying the authenticity of the request. Encouraging open communication within families can help prevent such incidents. Seniors should be advised to confirm such requests directly with the family member involved.

How Large Assisted Living Facilities Dodge the Care You Thought You Paid For

December 3, 2025
Alright, folks, gather round and break down the top five reasons why you or let's be honest, your loved one might not be getting that VIP treatment you thought came with the brochure at one of those mega assisted living facilities. It's like expecting a gourmet meal and getting served a microwaved hot dog. Let's dive in. 1. High Staff Turnover: The Revolving Door Syndrome Imagine walking into your favorite bar, and every time, there's a new bartender. Yesterday, it was Tom. Today, it's Jerry. Tomorrow, who knows? That's your large, assisted living facility. Staff come and go faster than fashion trends. Why? Because working there is about as rewarding as trying to read "War and Peace" on a rollercoaster. This high turnover means just when your loved one finally remembers the name of their caregiver, poof, they vanish. It's like a magic trick nobody asked for. 2. High Resident to Staff Ratio: Where's Waldo?  Now, picture playing a game of Where's Waldo, but instead of finding Waldo, you're trying to find a staff member to help you. That's right, in the sea of residents, finding a staff member is like finding a needle in a haystack, if the needle was also trying to hide from you. The ratio is so off, you might as well declare yourself a staff member and start helping. At least you'd know where one staff member is—spoiler alert, it's you.

The Importance of Dental Care for Seniors' Overall Health

December 2, 2025
Dental care is a crucial yet often overlooked component of overall health for seniors. As individuals age, maintaining oral health becomes increasingly important due to its direct impact on nutrition, systemic health, and quality of life. Neglecting dental care can lead to complications affecting the mouth and the entire body. Understanding the importance of dental health is crucial for promoting overall well-being among older adults. Prioritizing dental care is crucial in assisted living settings to ensure residents' comfort and overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and timely treatments can prevent a host of issues. Seniors often benefit from environments where dental routines are reinforced on a daily basis. Oral health is closely tied to dignity, confidence, and physical wellness. Oral Health's Impact on Systemic Conditions Poor oral health in seniors is linked to various systemic conditions. Gum disease may contribute to worsening chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart conditions. Infections in the mouth can spread, stressing the immune system and overall health. Maintaining strong oral hygiene habits can positively influence seniors’ physical resilience.  Tooth loss and oral discomfort may force older adults to avoid nutritious foods. Difficulty chewing often limits dietary options and leads to imbalanced nutrition. Maintaining oral function supports healthier eating habits and sustained energy levels. Dental interventions typically improve seniors’ abilities to enjoy various meals again.

Understanding the Impact of Ageism and How to Advocate for Seniors

November 30, 2025
Ageism, the systematic stereotyping and discrimination against individuals based on age, profoundly affects the well-being of older adults. It manifests in various forms, from subtle biases in everyday interactions to institutional policies that marginalize seniors. Such discrimination can lead to diminished self-esteem, social isolation, and reduced access to essential services. Addressing ageism ensures seniors live with dignity, respect, and full social participation. Advocating for seniors involves recognizing and challenging the societal norms and structures perpetuating age-based discrimination. It requires a concerted effort from individuals, communities, and institutions to promote inclusivity and equity. Understanding the roots and ramifications of ageism enables the development of effective strategies to combat it. Recognizing Ageism in Society  Ageism often goes unnoticed, as it is embedded in cultural narratives and societal structures. Media representations frequently portray older adults as frail or out of touch, reinforcing negative stereotypes. Such depictions can influence public perception and policy decisions, leading to the marginalization of seniors. A report by the World Health Organization found that ageism is prevalent globally, affecting individuals' health and well-being. Workplace discrimination is another area where ageism is evident. Older employees may face challenges in hiring, promotions, and training opportunities due to assumptions about their capabilities and age-related biases. Negative workplace perceptions can reduce seniors’ economic stability and harm their sense of purpose. Addressing workplace ageism requires policy reforms and awareness campaigns to promote age diversity and inclusion.

The Forever Home: Smart Features Every Buyer Should Look for to Age in Place Gracefully

By Paul Trusik • November 28, 2025
For many home buyers approaching retirement, the ideal home isn’t about square footage or curb appeal—it’s about comfort, safety, and the ability to live independently for years to come. The goal is simple: find a house that grows with you. The Gist When searching for a home to age in place, focus on features that support safety, convenience, and adaptability—such as step-free entries, wider doorways, single-level layouts, and smart home technology. Accessibility, lighting, and energy efficiency should be considered essential, not optional. Home Features That Make Aging in Place Easier Below is a practical guide to help you identify homes designed for long-term comfort and independence. Accessibility Essentials ● Zero-step entryway ● Wide interior doors (at least 32 inches) ● Lever-style door handles and faucets ● Non-slip flooring, especially in kitchens and bathrooms Comfort Upgrades ● First-floor bedroom and full bathroom ● Walk-in shower with built-in bench ● Adjustable-height countertops ● Bright, glare-free lighting throughout  Safety Features ● Grab bars near toilets and tubs ● No-threshold showers ● Smart home monitoring or emergency call systems ● Ample exterior lighting for nighttime safety For inspiration, explore resources like the AARP HomeFit Guide or design ideas from Houzz . Key Rooms and What to Check

Choosing a New Home Over a Hotel: A Family Member’s Journey to Find the Best Care

November 26, 2025
I was faced with the daunting and emotional job of finding the perfect living arrangement for our loved one, the decision weighed heavily on me. The thought of moving them from a life filled with the familiarity of their own home, neighborhood laughs, and backyard barbecues to a place that felt more like a sterile hotel than a home was unnerving. Through my journey, I discovered the unparalleled value of residential care homes over large, assisted living "warehouses." Ultimately, these are the top five reasons that guided my decision, echoing the sentiments of countless families in similar situations. 1. Seeking Warmth, Not Cold Efficiency In our family home, every corner tells a story, and every piece of furniture has witnessed laughter, tears, and countless memories. My struggle of replacing that love with the cold, sterile, and impersonal efficiency of a large assisted living facility felt off. Residential care homes, with their homely ambiance, personalized rooms and care, and shared areas, felt more like a continuation of home. It wasn’t about finding a place to stay; it was about finding a new home for our loved one. 2. From a Familiar Neighborhood to a Welcoming Community Our loved one had always been an integral part of our neighborhood, knowing everyone's names, their stories, and what made them smile. Moving to a large facility felt like I was ripping them of their sense of community. Instead, we sought a residential care facility that mirrored the close-knit community they had always loved. Here, relationships flourished not just among residents but also with caregivers, ensuring they would never be just another face in the crowd. 3. Customized Care Over Generic Services The thought of our loved one becoming just another task on a caregiver’s checklist was disheartening. In large facilities, the personalized care we hoped for seemed diluted by the sheer volume of residents. We turned to residential care for its promise of tailored, personalized care, where every aspect of our loved one’s needs, likes, fears, joys, and habits is met with the same attention and love they received at home. It was about ensuring their days were filled with care that recognized them as individuals, not numbers.

Combatting Social Isolation in the Digital Age: Creative Ways for Seniors to Connect Online

November 26, 2025
Social isolation among seniors is a growing concern, particularly as the digital age reshapes how people connect and communicate. The World Health Organization has identified loneliness as a significant health risk, comparable to smoking and obesity. For older adults, particularly those residing in assisted living communities, maintaining social connections is essential for emotional well-being and cognitive health. Technology integration offers innovative solutions to bridge the gap and foster meaningful interactions. Assisted living facilities increasingly adopt digital tools to help residents stay connected with family, friends, and the broader community. Technologies now range from video calling platforms to interactive social media applications tailored for seniors. Embracing these tools enables seniors to reduce loneliness while remaining engaged in their social circles. Social Media Platforms: Bridging the Distance of Social Isolation  Video conferencing tools like Zoom and Skype have become essential in maintaining face-to-face interactions for seniors. These platforms enable residents to participate in family gatherings, attend virtual events, and even join online classes, thereby helping to reduce social isolation. Regular virtual interactions can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and keep seniors mentally stimulated. A study published in BMC Geriatrics found that video calls can decrease loneliness among older adults.

The Rise of Geriatric Telehealth: Bringing Healthcare to Seniors in Assisted Living

November 21, 2025
Senior healthcare is undergoing a transformative shift with the advent of geriatric telehealth. Innovative approaches now leverage technology to provide medical services remotely, ensuring seniors receive timely and efficient care. As the aging population grows, the demand for accessible healthcare solutions becomes increasingly critical. Geriatric telehealth serves as a pivotal solution, bridging the gap between seniors and healthcare providers. Assisted living facilities are leading the integration of telehealth services to enhance the well-being of their residents. Adopting telehealth enables facilities to offer continuous monitoring, prompt medical consultations, and personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. Integration improves health outcomes and empowers seniors to maintain their independence. The rise of geriatric telehealth reflects a commitment to adapting healthcare delivery for the evolving needs of older people. Geriatric Telehealth Reduces Hospitalizations Through Early Intervention Geriatric telehealth helps identify health issues before they escalate into emergencies that require hospitalization. Virtual monitoring tools track vital signs and symptom progression in real-time, enabling proactive care decisions. Early intervention reduces the likelihood of complications associated with chronic illness. Seniors benefit from quicker response times and fewer disruptive medical events. Remote access to primary care providers ensures consistent health assessments. Regular check-ins allow caregivers to update care plans as needed. Preventive engagement promotes long-term health stability for residents.