When your elderly parent or loved one starts needing help with daily tasks, you have two main options: nursing home assistance or home care. This decision can be difficult, especially now that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought additional concerns about health and safety when interacting with others. Here’s what to know about both choices. 

Nursing Home Assistance

A nursing home is a residential facility where seniors receive 24/7 care. Residents enjoy nutritious meals and assistance in areas such as cleaning, mobility, and hygiene.

Because these facilities typically provide 24-hour access to medical doctors, they’re an excellent choice if your loved one lives with a serious medical condition. In addition, they offer a safe, secure environment for seniors with dementia and other memory issues that increase the risk of wandering and unsafe behavior. 

With the rise of COVID-19, some families are concerned about their loved ones living in a facility that houses other seniors. Before you choose a nursing home, make sure it follows the health and safety measures outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Home Care 

A senior who receives home care doesn’t move to a residential facility. Instead, a trained caregiver comes to their home and offers assistance with daily tasks, such as housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, and medication management.

Depending on your loved one’s needs, the caregiver may visit for just a few hours each week or move in to provide 24/7 care. Many seniors enjoy the feelings of comfort and independence that come with staying in their own home. 

Moreover, rather than living in close proximity to a variety of residents and staff, home care recipients only have to interact with one person. That’s why families concerned about the spread of COVID-19 may prefer this option.

Are you searching for safe, compassionate nursing home assistance or home care for your loved one? Contact Merry Health Care Center in Succasunna, NJ. These trusted caregivers have been helping seniors live healthily and happily for over 60 years. They offer a comfortable residential facility along with convenient home care services. To learn more about how they can help your loved one, visit them online or call (973) 584-4000.