Skilled nursing and assisted living are two different types of care settings for individuals who require varying degrees of assistance with daily activities. Here are 15 key differences between skilled nursing and assisted living:

Level of Care: Skilled nursing provides a higher level of care than assisted living. Skilled nursing is typically for individuals who require 24-hour medical care, whereas assisted living is for those who need assistance with daily activities but do not require constant medical attention.

Medical Services: Skilled nursing offers medical services such as medication management, wound care, and physical therapy, while assisted living offers limited medical services such as medication reminders and help with scheduling appointments.

Staffing: Skilled nursing facilities have more staff members, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs), while assisted living facilities typically have fewer medical staff.

Cost: Skilled nursing is more expensive than assisted living due to the higher level of care and medical services provided.

Medicare Coverage: Skilled nursing is covered by Medicare, while assisted living is not.

Length of Stay: Skilled nursing is generally a short-term stay for rehabilitation purposes, while assisted living is a long-term option for those who require assistance with daily activities.

Room Types: Skilled nursing facilities typically have shared rooms or semi-private rooms, while assisted living facilities offer private apartments or shared apartments.

Meals: Both skilled nursing and assisted living facilities provide meals, but the quality and variety of food may differ.

Activities: Assisted living facilities offer a range of activities to promote socialization and engagement, while skilled nursing facilities may focus more on rehabilitation exercises.

Regulations: Skilled nursing facilities are highly regulated by state and federal agencies, while assisted living facilities are typically regulated at the state level only.

Security: Skilled nursing facilities may have more security measures in place to prevent wandering and elopement, while assisted living facilities may offer more freedom of movement.

Respite Care: Skilled nursing facilities may offer respite care for caregivers, while assisted living facilities may offer short-term stays for individuals who need temporary assistance.

Hospice Care: Skilled nursing facilities may offer hospice care for terminally ill patients, while assisted living facilities may not provide this service.

Transportation: Assisted living facilities may offer transportation services for residents, while skilled nursing facilities may not have this option.

Staff Training: Skilled nursing facilities typically require more extensive training for staff members due to the higher level of medical care provided, while assisted living facilities may have less stringent requirements for training.