Nursing Home or Home Care? How to Make the Best Decision for an Elderly Person.

The decision on the appropriate form of care for a senior is one of the most challenging tasks for families. Is a professional nursing home or home care the better solution? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should depend on the individual needs of the senior and the family’s caregiving capabilities.

1. Home care – comfort and a familiar environment

Home care allows the senior to stay in a familiar environment, which can positively affect their well-being and mental health. This is especially important for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s, for whom a change of environment can be difficult.

Advantages of home care:

• Comfort and a sense of security
• Proximity to family and friends
• More control over the care
• Lower risk of infections and contagious diseases

Disadvantages of home care:

• High costs of hiring a caregiver
• Burden on the family
• No 24/7 medical care
• Need to adapt the home to the senior’s needs

2. Nursing home – professional care 24/7

A nursing home is a facility that provides seniors with comprehensive assistance, medical support, and the companionship of other residents. This is a good solution for individuals requiring constant care, rehabilitation, or specialized medical help.

Advantages of a nursing home:

• 24/7 professional care
• Access to doctors and physiotherapists
• Social integration with other seniors
• No burden on the family

Disadvantages of a nursing home:

• Separation from family and a familiar environment
• Costs of stay (depending on the facility’s standard)
• Limited freedom and privacy
• Risk of a difficult adjustment

3. How to make the best decision?

The choice between a nursing home and home care should be based on several key factors:

• The senior’s health condition – does he/she require constant medical attention?
• The family’s capabilities – can they provide appropriate care?
• Costs – is home care or a nursing facility more financially viable?
• The senior’s preferences – what is most important to them?

Each family must make the decision individually, considering both emotional and financial aspects. It is essential that the senior feels comfortable and safe in the chosen form of care.