Deciding between assisted living vs nursing homes can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information, you can make a choice that brings comfort and peace of mind. This guide explains the key differences, services, costs, and how to choose what’s best for your loved one.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Two Types of Care
When planning care for an older adult, two common options often come up: assisted living and nursing homes. Though they may sound alike, they offer very different types of support.
Knowing how each one works can help you make a confident and informed decision.
What Is an Assisted Living Facility?
An assisted living facility is a type of housing option for older adults who can mostly care for themselves but need some day-to-day support. Staff are there to support with things like getting dressed, taking medication, and preparing meals.
Residents have their own rooms or flats but also enjoy shared areas and activities with others.
Who it suits
- People who need light to moderate help with daily tasks
- Those who want a safe, social place to live
- Older adults who may feel lonely at home or struggle with household chores
Common services
- Three daily meals
- Medication reminders
- Help with dressing, bathing, and mobility
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Social activities and outings
- Emergency support from on-site staff
Assisted living is best for someone who values privacy but wants the reassurance of care being close by when needed.
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What Is a Nursing Home (Residential Nursing Home)?
A residential nursing home is designed for people who need regular medical care and full-time support. This includes older adults with serious health problems or those recovering after hospital treatment.
Nursing homes have qualified nurses on duty 24 hours a day. They provide hands-on care and monitor health conditions closely. Unlike assisted living, residents in nursing homes often need help with most daily tasks and may have complex care needs.
Key services
- Full-time care from trained nurses and carers
- Medication management and health checks
- Help with washing, eating, and moving around
- Specialised care for conditions like dementia or stroke
- End-of-life support if needed
- Meal preparation, laundry, and daily routines
These homes are inspected and rated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), which checks that they are safe, clean, and well run.
Who it suits
- People with long-term illnesses or disabilities
- Those who need medical care throughout the day and night
- Anyone recovering from surgery or serious illness
- Older adults who can no longer manage on their own
Nursing homes offer more medical support than assisted living. They are the right choice when someone’s health means they need close monitoring and full personal care.
Differences Between Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
While both assisted living and nursing homes provide support, they meet very different needs. The table below shows the main differences, so you can decide what matters most for your family.
| Feature | Assisted Living | Nursing Home |
| Medical Care | Help with medication, GP visits, and reminders. Most residents are in good health. | 24/7 clinical care by trained nurses. Ideal for complex or ongoing conditions. |
| Daily Support | Support with washing, dressing, meals, and mobility, based on need. | Full personal care including lifting, feeding, and continence care. |
| Living Space | Private flats or rooms, often with a kitchenette. Personal touches encouraged. | Shared or private rooms. Hospital beds and medical equipment are common. |
| Lifestyle | Social activities, day trips, and flexible mealtimes. Promotes independence. | Structured routines. Fewer outings due to medical needs. |
| Staff Ratio | Lower staff-to-resident ratio. Suitable for low to moderate needs. | Higher staffing levels. More one-to-one attention throughout the day. |
| Cost | Generally £600–£1,000/week. Costs vary by services and location. | £800–£1,200/week or more. Higher due to medical staffing and supervision. |
| Independence | Encouraged. Residents manage much of their day with some help. | Limited. Most rely on carers for daily routines and decision-making. |
Not sure how a care home compares to a nursing home? Read our full guide on the difference between a care home and a nursing home for a clear breakdown.
Cost Comparison and Funding in the UK
Paying for care is a big part of the decision. Here’s what you need to know about the cost of assisted living and nursing homes in the UK, along with available support options.
Cost Overview
| Feature | Assisted Living | Nursing Home |
| Weekly Cost | £600 to £1,000 | £800 to £1,200 (can go higher for complex care) |
| Includes | Rent, meals, personal care, activities | 24-hour care, meals, and medical support |
| Medical Support | Basic help only, like reminders | Full-time nursing and health monitoring |
| Living Setup | Private flat or room, more independence | Shared or private room, more structured care |
Assisted living is usually cheaper than nursing homes, but it doesn’t include full medical care. Nursing homes cost more because they provide round-the-clock nursing and more staff support.
NHS and Council Support
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) covers all care costs for people with serious medical needs.
- NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC): NHS Funded Nursing Care (FNC) pays £219.71 per week towards nursing home care if you don’t qualify for CHC.
- Local authority funding: Available after assessments if savings are below the threshold (£23,250).
Getting Help with Care Costs
- You can ask your local council for a care needs assessment to find out what kind of support you need
- If you have over £23,250 in savings, you’ll usually need to pay for care yourself
- If you have less than £23,250, you may qualify for means-tested help from your local council. They will look at your income and assets through a financial assessment. If you qualify, they may cover some or all of your care costs.
- If your chosen care home costs more than the council’s budget, your family might be asked to pay a top-up fee
Other Support
- Some charities offer help to people with low incomes, disabilities, or specific conditions
- Veterans and their families may qualify for additional financial support
- Speak to your council or a social worker to find out what help is available and how to apply
Legal Considerations and Care Standards
All care facilities in the UK must meet certain legal standards. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) regulates both assisted living services and nursing homes in England. It checks that care is safe, respectful, and well managed.
Care providers have legal duties that include:
- Protecting residents from harm or neglect
- Providing proper medical care and support
- Keeping families informed and involved in care decisions
Nursing homes are subject to stricter inspections because they offer medical care and handle complex needs.
Assisted living services are still regulated but may be classed differently depending on how much care is provided.
Reports from CQC inspections are public and can help families compare care options.
Similarities Between Assisted Living And Nursing Homes
Although assisted living and nursing homes differ in the level of care, they do share some important similarities.
Both:
- Are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
- Have trained staff who support residents with daily tasks
- Use individual care plans to meet personal needs
- Provide meals, cleaning, and help with dressing, washing, or mobility
- Aim to offer comfort, safety, and dignity in a supportive setting
If you’re feeling unsure about which to choose, it helps to know that both options are designed to keep people safe and well cared for. The right choice depends on how much support is needed day to day.
If you’re considering care options for someone with cognitive needs, it helps to understand the difference between learning difficulties and learning disability.
Which Type of Facility Is Right for You or a Loved One?
The right care setting depends on a person’s health, independence, and day-to-day needs.
Assisted living is suitable for people who can manage most tasks but need help with a few, such as dressing, washing, or remembering medication. It works well for those who enjoy social interaction and want to stay active in a safe environment.
Nursing homes are better for people with serious or long-term health conditions. This includes those who need regular medical care, supervision, or help with nearly all daily tasks. Nursing homes provide 24-hour care with trained nurses on-site.
When deciding, think about:
- How much daily support is needed
- Whether medical care is required
- How independent the person is
- The importance of social activities and privacy
A good first step is to speak with your GP or request a care needs assessment from your local council. This helps guide the decision and shows what support might be available.
Alternatives to Assisted Living and Nursing Homes
If a care home isn’t the right fit, there are other options to consider across London and the UK. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Type of Care | What It Is (Services) | Best For |
| Home Care (Domiciliary Care) | Regular visits at home to help with washing, dressing, meals, medication, and cleaning | Older adults who want to stay at home with support |
| Live-in Care | A carer lives full-time in the home to provide round-the-clock personal and health care | People needing constant care but wishing to remain at home |
| Adult Day Care Centres | Daytime care in a local centre with meals, activities, and supervision | Those who live at home but need daytime support and social interaction |
| Respite Care | Short-term care at home or in a facility, often after hospital discharge or for carer relief | Recovery periods or when carers need time off |
For daytime support, adult day care facilities are a helpful choice. Speak to your local council to find what works best.
How to Choose the Right Facility
Choosing between assisted living and a nursing home isn’t just about care, it’s about comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Use these tips to find the right place for you or your loved one.
Start With the Basics:
- What daily support is needed? Help with washing? Full-time nursing care? This shapes your decision.
- How independent is the person now, and how might that change over time?
- Is the location close enough for regular family visits and involvement?
What to Check During Your Visit:
- Cleanliness and comfort: Look beyond surface-level tidiness. Do rooms feel warm and lived-in?
- Staff attitude: Are they calm, patient, and engaged? Watch how they interact with residents.
- Care routines: Ask how they handle personal care, medications, emergencies, and night-time support.
- Staffing: Ask about staff-to-resident ratios and whether the same carers look after the same residents.
- Resident well-being: Do people seem content, well-fed, and occupied? Are there smiles, chats, and laughter?
Questions That Matter:
- Can residents personalise their space or bring their own belongings?
- Are there quiet areas, gardens, or spaces for the family to visit comfortably?
- What’s the policy for falls, illness, or sudden changes in condition?
- Are visiting hours flexible and welcoming?
Final Tips:
- Visit more than once, at different times of day
- Ask to see the CQC rating and their last inspection report
- Ask how they involve families in care planning
- Talk to other families if possible, they’ll give you the clearest picture
Metro Care UK can help guide you through this decision. We believe in honest conversations, practical advice, and care that feels right from day one.
Conclusion
Assisted living vs nursing home care depends on how much help a person needs. Assisted living offers support with daily tasks, while nursing homes provide full-time medical care. Think about care needs, comfort, and cost before deciding. For honest advice and local options, contact Metro Care UK or read more on our website.
FAQs
Which is more expensive, a nursing home or assisted living?
In the UK, nursing homes are generally more expensive than assisted living. This is because they provide 24-hour medical care, often by registered nurses. Weekly costs for a nursing home typically range from £800 to £1,200 or more, while assisted living usually costs £600 to £1,000 per week, depending on services, location, and care needs.
What are the 5 levels of care in assisted living?
While specific terms may vary between providers, assisted living in the UK typically includes five levels of care:
Independent Living: Minimal support, mainly housing and community features
Low-Level Care: Occasional help with dressing, meals, or reminders
Moderate Care: Regular help with personal care and medication
High-Level Care: Daily hands-on support with mobility, hygiene, and routine
End-of-Life or Complex Needs Care: Often coordinated with district nurses or external care teams
How long do most people live in assisted living?
There’s no set time frame, but on average, residents stay in assisted living for 2 to 3 years. Some stay longer if their needs remain stable, while others may move to nursing care if their health changes. The length of stay depends on individual needs, support levels, and personal choice.
What is the minimum age for assisted living?
Most assisted living facilities in the UK accept residents aged 55 or older, though some may start at 60 or 65. Admission is usually based more on care needs than age. It’s best to check with the provider, as eligibility can vary depending on the service and local authority.