Senior living options often include a focus on long-term care for a member’s medical and non-medical needs. While considering the options, you might be wondering about the differences between long-term vs. short-term care and which might be a better fit for your aging family member. An older adult recovering from a major surgery or illness may require short-term care, while those with a chronic health condition can benefit from long-term care. If you’re looking for Texas long-term care for seniors, reach out to Ventana for quality care and medical support today.
Thus, choosing between short-term and long-term care will depend largely on the individual’s medical history and unique needs. To find out more about our member-focused programs and services, call us at 214.225.6197.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Care
Both long-term and short-term care offer similar benefits, such as taking care of one’s personal and medical needs. However, before going into the differences between long-term vs short-term care, it is crucial to understand the levels of care offered in each.
What Is Long-Term Care?
If you’re wondering what is long-term care, the answer is quite simple. Long-term care encompasses all kinds of services that maximize a person’s quality of life, especially when they cannot take care of themselves for long periods.
Many older adults may need assistance with daily activities along with intensive nursing support. Opting for a long-term care plan at a member-focused assisted living community can greatly empower the elderly to live an independent and fulfilling life.
What Is Short-Term Care?
Another common question that comes up is what is short-term care and what does it include? In short-term care, members also receives intensive medical attention and assistance with personal needs, but only for a short period.
Such programs usually have an end goal in mind, where the person eventually gets well enough to resume their daily lives and perform tasks on their own without any assistance.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Care: Main Differences
The core differences between short-term vs. long-term care are summarized as follows:
- A short-term care plan is usually suggested for someone recovering from surgery, major illness, stroke, or an accident. Meanwhile, a long-term care plan is suited for someone with a chronic or progressive health condition where there is no hope of full recovery but steps can be taken to maximize their quality of life.
- Short-term care may last for a few weeks or months, while long-term care may begin following a senior’s retirement.
- Long-term care is usually recommended for seniors and/or those with a chronic illness or disability, while people of all ages can benefit from a short-term care plan following a major injury or disease.
- Short-term care is often administered with an end goal in mind, where the person is finally able to resume independent living. But in long-term care, the person requires constant medical support and assistance with daily activities.
For example, in short-term care, a person may require the services of a physical therapist to regain their balance and coordination following a stroke. But in long-term care, the person may opt for rehabilitation therapies to improve mobility and muscle strength to boost physical and mental wellness.
Find Quality Long-Term Care for Seniors at Ventana
At Ventana, we offer quality long-term care services for members with a special focus on their independence and happiness. At our member-focused assisted living community in Dallas, Texas, we offer a lush, sunlit, and vibrant environment where individuals can socialize, relax, enjoy nutritious meals, and pursue their hobbies with all their medical and personal needs taken care of.
Call us at 214.225.6197 for an all-inclusive personalized long-term care plan for your loved one.