For many seniors, entering a chapter in life where they need more help can be intimidating. Between in-home care and nursing homes, there are many factors to consider when deciding how best to move forward. Use this guide to help you decide which option is best for you or your loved one. 

Private Care vs. Nursing Home 

1.  Familiar Environment

For seniors wanting to maintain independence by staying in their own homes, in-home care can be a helpful option. Seniors with progressive sight degeneration or memory loss are especially likely to benefit from familiar surroundings. In addition, recipients of home health care can maintain routines that bring them comfort as well as preserve a sense of privacy.

Nursing homes, on the other hand, are shared spaces. Along with a loss of privacy and familiarity, some nursing homes place restrictions on what you are able to bring or do onsite, like having pets and cooking. If your loved one is not ready to transition away from their routine, in-home care might be the better option. 

2. Personalized Care

One of the benefits of private care is that it is entirely customizable. The amount of hours needed and type of care depend entirely on what your loved one needs. Whether it's companionship, help with errands, medication reminders, mobility assistance, meal prepping, or respite care, home health care is completely individual. Nursing homes often have to create more broad care plans to assist the entire community, while private care offers your loved one the most personalized attention. 

3. Lower Cost

People often assume personalized care would be far more expensive than a nursing home. However, on average, 40-44 hours a week of in-home health care costs approximately $59,040 annually as opposed to $82,128 to $92,376 for full-time care in a nursing home. With this in mind, as well as the amount and type of care your loved one requires, you can decide which care option best suits their individual needs and budget. 

If you or a loved one are considering in-home care, Unique Loving Hands Home Health Care in Black Jack, MO, is an agency you can trust. With over 15 years of experience, they have offered customized care services for seniors and disabled adults. From 24/7 private-duty nursing care to assistance with daily tasks, the team will ensure your loved one is cared for in the comfort of their own home. To find out more about their services, visit them online or call (314) 274-7100.