Assisted Living vs. Home Care: Comparing Costs and Value
If you’re considering home health or Assisted Living for yourself or a loved one, you may feel confused about what they offer, and which is right for your senior lifestyle preferences, goals, and budget.
MorseLife is here to help you weigh the benefits of each, so you can confidently determine which care option is ideal for you.
What’s Included in the Cost of Assisted Living and Home Care Services?
Understanding what’s truly included in the cost of care is essential when making decisions about the future—for yourself or a loved one. At MorseLife, we believe in full transparency so you can compare Assisted Living and Home Care services with clarity and confidence.
Assisted Living at MorseLife
When you choose Assisted Living, the monthly cost typically includes a wide range of services and amenities, all thoughtfully designed to support safety, health, and quality of life. These include:
- 24/7 caregiver support
- Personalized assistance with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, and grooming)
- Medication management
- Chef-prepared meals
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Utilities and maintenance
- Engaging activities, programs, and entertainment
- Scheduled transportation
- A safe, secure environment with beautifully maintained grounds
While Medicare does not cover the cost of Assisted Living itself, certain healthcare services provided within the community—such as skilled nursing or physical therapy—may be covered depending on eligibility.
Home Care Services
The cost of Home Care services is typically based on hourly rates and varies depending on the level of support needed. Services may include:
- Personal care assistance
- Companionship
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Medication reminders
- Transportation support
- Coordination with medical providers
Unlike Assisted Living, Home Care is more à la carte—meaning each service adds to the total cost. While Medicare may cover certain Home Health services (such as skilled nursing or therapy), this only applies under specific circumstances, such as being homebound and having a physician’s order. Routine personal care or companion services are generally not covered by Medicare.
Making an Informed Choice
Every individual’s care needs are unique, and so are the costs. That’s why we encourage families to look beyond the base price and consider the full scope of what’s included—and what’s not. At MorseLife, our care advisors are here to help guide you through every option, so you can choose the support that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and goals.
Weighing the value of Assisted Living and home health
Your senior living and care budget is an important part of making a decision to move to Assisted Living – but choosing the right senior care situation is about more than money.
It’s also important to account for the value of each option you consider.
There are lifestyle benefits offered by both Assisted Living and home care, and which you choose will depend on your unique situation and goals. For some, remaining at home may be the most important consideration. Aging in place can provide the comfort and joy of familiar surroundings and memories.
Assisted Living offers a chance for a fresh start, and to become part of a community designed to cater to the needs of seniors. Assisted Living communities also provide consistent care from trained caregivers and healthcare professionals, daily meals, and housekeeping and laundry services.
Many seniors appreciate how these services and amenities add value to their lives by helping them conserve energy for preferred activities and enhancing their safety with added support.
They also offer an array of programs, activities, and events designed to stimulate resident engagement and enrich their quality of life. Assisted Living promotes social connections and empowers residents’ sense of independence and control in daily life. Residents are encouraged to discover their personal balance between security and autonomy.
Families of Assisted Living residents benefit from enhanced peace of mind, knowing their loved one is safe and secure in a place where their needs are met at all times.
A personal decision
When all is said and done, the choice between Assisted Living and home health is yours to make. Family meetings to discuss options, hear perspectives, and plan your path forward are a helpful approach during this time.
If you need additional support and guidance with your senior living decision, MorseLife is here for you.
As an award-winning leader in innovative, comprehensive Assisted Living and care for more than 40 years, we’re passionate about providing an exceptional senior living experience to all who choose us.
Our two outstanding Assisted Living communities offer something for every need and budget.
Even if you opt for home health services now, you can still choose Assisted Living in the future if your care needs and goals evolve.
Today, tomorrow, or down the road, MorseLife Assisted Living is here for you.
