Families who provide supportive care may have difficulty deciding the best living arrangements for aging relatives. Assisted living and in-home care are two popular choices for seniors who need a helping hand. It’s important both you and your loved one are involved in the decision. Be honest and talk about their limits and needs, and use these helpful descriptions to weigh your options.

How to Decide Between Assisted Living & In-Home Care

Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities are communities of elderly adults. They’re targeted toward seniors ages 55 and older who need a little extra help, but not the round-the-clock care nursing homes provide. Residents retain their independence while having access to assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and more. Many locations have senior housing or apartment-style complexes that balance the comforts of home with the care they need. If your aging relative has a deceased spouse or lives alone, he or she may benefit from the social atmosphere and variety of these arrangements offer. The average cost for assisted living facilities in Texas per month is slightly lower than the national average.

In-Home Care 

In-home care allows your loved one to remain at home. A home health care provider visits the residence to assist seniors with whatever they need. Personalized care can range from a few days a week for light housekeeping, doctors’ appointments, and grocery shopping to 24/7 monitoring, feeding, bathing, and medicine administration. Seniors who prefer one-on-one interactions or have very serious health conditions, but still wish to remain at home, may prefer in-home care. These services in Texas typically charge an hourly rate, and the amount you pay depends on the level of care. If your loved one needs medical assistance, it can cost $1 to $1.50 more per hour.

If you’re looking into assisted living for your aging loved one, contact Longhorn Village in Austin, TX. This five-star facility lets seniors live active and fulfilling lives in a safe and welcoming community. They offer residents a range of short-term and long-term care options that allow seniors to tailor plans to fit their specific needs. For details on their available services, visit them online or call (512) 266-5600 to learn how you can get the best care for your loved one today.