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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.


 

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.

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment for Seniors with Cognitive Challenges

November 19, 2025
Seniors with cognitive challenges, such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease, often experience heightened sensitivity to their surroundings. Environmental factors can significantly impact their comfort, mood, and overall well-being. Creating a sensory-friendly environment is essential in promoting inclusivity and enhancing the quality of life for these individuals. Assisted living communities are crucial in designing spaces catering to their residents' unique sensory needs. Implementing thoughtful design and care strategies can help mitigate potential stressors for seniors with cognitive impairments. By understanding and addressing sensory sensitivities, caregivers can create supportive environments that foster engagement and reduce anxiety. Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in Cognitive Challenges Individuals with cognitive challenges often exhibit altered sensory processing, making them more susceptible to environmental stimuli. Bright lights, loud noises, and strong odors can become overwhelming, leading to agitation or withdrawal. Recognizing these sensitivities is the first step toward creating accommodating environments. Sensory overload can exacerbate symptoms of cognitive decline, affecting memory, attention, and emotional regulation. For instance, a noisy dining area may confuse and reduce residents’ appetites. Understanding individual sensory preferences allows caregivers to tailor environments that promote comfort and engagement. Personalized care plans are essential, as sensory sensitivities vary among individuals.

Understanding Elder Abuse Prevention and Protection Strategies

November 14, 2025
Elder abuse is a growing concern that affects millions of seniors worldwide. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and neglect. Recognizing the signs and taking proactive measures is essential to ensuring the safety and dignity of older adults. Assisted living communities play a key role in prevention by providing structured support and vigilance. Creating awareness and implementing protective strategies can help reduce the risk of elder abuse. Families and caregivers must stay informed about potential warning signs and know how to intervene. Studies show that one in ten seniors experiences abuse, yet many cases go unreported. By understanding the issue, communities can create safer environments for their elderly loved ones. Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse Identifying elder abuse requires careful attention to physical, emotional, and behavioral changes. Unexplained injuries, bruises, or burns may indicate physical abuse. Emotional abuse can be harder to detect, but symptoms include withdrawal, fear, and sudden mood swings. Neglect may be evident through poor hygiene, malnutrition, or untreated medical conditions.  Financial exploitation is another common form of elder abuse. Unusual banking transactions, missing valuables, or sudden changes in financial documents may signal exploitation. Caregivers and family members should regularly monitor financial statements to detect any irregularities. Protecting seniors from fraud requires education and proactive oversight.

The Role of Music Therapy in Uplifting Spirits and Easing Anxiety for Seniors

November 13, 2025
Music has long been intertwined with human culture, serving as a source of comfort, joy, and expression. Music therapy offers more than mere entertainment for seniors, especially those residing in assisted living communities; it is pivotal in enhancing mental and emotional well-being. One significant benefit is its potential to alleviate anxiety for seniors, a common concern in this demographic. Understanding the multifaceted advantages of music is essential for caregivers and family members. The Science Behind Music Therapy  Music therapy is a clinical intervention that utilizes music to address various health goals. For seniors, this therapy can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Engaging with music stimulates multiple brain regions, enhancing mood and cognitive functions. The rhythmic elements of music can synchronize with bodily functions, promoting relaxation. Studies have shown that music therapy can elevate dopamine levels, improving mood and motivation. For instance, after her stroke, Joni Mitchell used music therapy to aid her recovery . This neurochemical response is particularly beneficial for seniors experiencing anxiety, as it fosters a sense of well-being.

Summer Safety for Seniors: Preventing Heatstroke and Other Health Risks

November 7, 2025
Learn essential summer safety tips for seniors. Discover how assisted living communities prevent heatstroke through hydration, nutrition, and safe activities.

Celebrating Grandparents Day: Honoring the Wisdom and Love of Grandparents in Assisted Living

November 4, 2025
Grandparents Day in assisted living honors love, wisdom, and legacy—strengthening family bonds through meaningful activities and continuous connection.

Embracing Technology: Helping Seniors Stay Connected with Loved Ones Through Digital Tools

October 31, 2025
In today's digital age, technology is pivotal in maintaining connections, especially for seniors in assisted living communities. Bridging the technological divide is essential to ensure seniors remain engaged with their loved ones and the broader world. Digital tools offer myriad opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and emotional support. However, many seniors face challenges in adopting these technologies due to unfamiliarity or apprehension. Assisted living facilities are uniquely positioned to facilitate this technological integration. By providing resources, training, and support, these communities can empower residents to harness the benefits of digital tools. Understanding the Technological Divide  The technological divide between seniors and younger generations is multifaceted. A significant barrier is the lack of exposure many seniors have had to digital advancements. According to research , as of 2021, approximately 25% of adults aged 65 and older reported never using the Internet. Fear and apprehension about technology further exacerbate this divide. Many seniors express concerns about security, privacy, and the potential for making irreversible mistakes. These fears can deter them from exploring digital tools that could enhance their lives. Addressing these concerns through education and reassurance is paramount. Physical limitations, such as diminished vision or dexterity, can also hinder technology adoption. Standard devices may not cater to seniors' specific needs, making interactions cumbersome. Recognizing and accommodating these challenges is essential in promoting digital inclusivity. Customized solutions can make technology more accessible and user-friendly for this demographic. Despite these challenges, seniors are increasingly interested in learning and adapting. Many express a desire to connect with family members who predominantly communicate through digital platforms. This motivation can be harnessed to encourage technological engagement . Supportive environments that foster learning can significantly impact seniors' willingness to embrace digital tools. Implementing User-Friendly Devices and Digital Tools Selecting appropriate devices is crucial in facilitating seniors' digital engagement. Devices designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind can alleviate many of the challenges seniors face. For instance, tablets with large icons and intuitive interfaces can make navigation easier for those with limited tech experience. Features such as adjustable text sizes and voice commands further enhance usability.