Today, there are more options than ever for senior living. When comparing assisted living vs skilled nursing, the key differences come down to how much help is needed each day and whether medical care is required.
While both provide support, they serve different needs based on the level of care involved. Understanding this distinction can help connect those needs to the right type of community and evaluate factors like cost, location, and overall fit.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living provides a combination of housing and day-to-day assistance, with support available as needed while maintaining independence.
At communities like Someren Glen, residents live in apartment-style homes and receive personalized assistance based on their individual routines, preferences, and level of need.
This may include help with daily tasks, medication reminders, and access to services and activities that support a more manageable daily routine.
Rather than focusing on medical care, assisted living is centered on creating a comfortable environment where residents can continue living as independently as possible, with added support available when needed.
What is Skilled Nursing Care?
Skilled nursing communities are designed for individuals who require a higher level of medical attention and supervision.
In addition to helping with activities of daily living (ADLs), these communities provide care from licensed medical professionals and support more complex health needs.
Skilled nursing communities may provide:
- wound treatment
- injections
- IV therapy
- health monitoring
- physical, occupational, or speech therapy
Skilled nursing care may be provided on either a long-term or short-term basis, depending on an individual’s needs. In many cases, this level of care is recommended when ongoing medical needs require more consistent oversight.
Long-term skilled nursing care for ongoing medical needs
Long-term care is typically needed when someone has a chronic or complex condition that requires regular medical attention.
Short-term rehabilitation following a hospital stay
Short-term rehabilitation is often used after surgery, illness, or injury, with the goal of helping individuals regain strength and return to a more independent setting.
Assisted Living vs. Skilled Nursing: Determining the Level of Support Needed
A helpful first step is to look at how easily daily activities can be managed.
These are often called activities of daily living, which are basic tasks people complete each day, such as:
- bathing or showering
- getting dressed
- eating
- moving from one place to another
- using the restroom
The level of help needed with these activities can range from occasional assistance to full, hands-on help.
When someone needs only limited help with daily routines, assisted living may be appropriate. When needs become more consistent or involve medical attention, skilled nursing may be a better fit.
Understanding these needs can guide the decision.
Understanding the Costs of Assisted Living vs. Skilled Nursing Care
The cost difference between assisted living and skilled nursing largely comes down to the level of care provided.
Skilled nursing is typically the more expensive option because it includes medical services and 24-hour clinical staffing. Assisted living generally costs less, with pricing based on factors like apartment size, services, and amenities.
There are several ways families may cover these costs. Many families use a combination of private resources and available programs, depending on their situation.
Private financial options for assisted living or skilled nursing care may include:
- long-term care insurance
- life insurance policies
- reverse mortgages
- annuities or trusts
Government programs may also be available to help cover the costs of assisted living or skilled nursing care, depending on eligibility:
- Medicare: Generally, Medicare does not cover long-term care , however it may cover short-term skilled nursing, such as rehabilitation following a qualifying hospital stay.
- Medicaid: Individuals who meet both medical and financial requirements may be eligible for coverage through Health First Colorado , which can help pay for long-term skilled nursing care.
- PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) and other managed care options in certain situations.
Because coverage depends on eligibility and the type of care needed, it’s important to consider both current needs and how those needs may change over time.
For more details, visit our FAQ page or explore our guide on how insurance may help cover senior living costs .
Finding the Right Location and Community Fit
Once care needs are clear, the next step is finding a community that feels like the right fit.
For many families, location still matters, but it can mean different things depending on priorities. This may include being close to family and friends, access to healthcare providers, or nearby parks, shopping, and everyday conveniences.
Beyond location, it’s important to consider how well a community can meet both current and future needs.
Many communities offer a continuum of care , meaning multiple levels of living and care are available within one place. This allows residents to transition from independent living to assisted living or skilled nursing if their needs change over time. At communities like Someren Glen, this approach allows residents to remain in their familiar community as their needs change.
Continuing care communities can offer flexibility that may:
- reduce the need for future moves
- provide more consistency in daily life
- help families feel more confident in their long-term plan
A community should not only meet practical needs, but also feel comfortable and easy to navigate. Taking the time to explore options, ask questions, and understand what is available can help ensure the right fit from the start.
About Someren Glen, A Continuing Care Community
Located on 14 acres in Centennial, Colorado, Someren Glen offers independent living , assisted living , skilled nursing , rehabilitative care , and more. A variety of floor plans are available, including studio, one bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Residents enjoy a wide array of services, amenities , and life enrichment programming while leaving behind home repairs, mowing, and snow shoveling.
Learn more about Someren Glen residents and their experiences . We are here to help! Contact us with questions or to schedule a tour.
