Understanding Care Options for Older Adults in Spokane
Retirement looks different for everyone. Some older adults look for peace and quiet. Others want a schedule full of social activities. Some prefer a cozy home-style setting. Others need to downsize into something designed for their needs.
If you’re exploring senior living options in Spokane, you might be comparing group homes to larger communities. Both types of care offer helpful support with daily tasks and health-related services. But how they do it and who they serve can differ a lot.
At North Point Village, we meet many families wondering which option is the best fit. As an assisted living and memory care community in Spokane, we are here to help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Group Home for Seniors?
A senior group home is also known as an adult family home or residential care home. These homes are often licensed to serve a small number of residents, usually six to eight older adults. They are located in traditional neighborhoods and feel like single-family houses.
Some families choose a group home for the following reasons:
- Familiar home-like setting
- Lower number of residents
- More informal environment
- Possible lower monthly cost
Group living for seniors is often staffed by caregivers who provide help with personal care services, such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Toileting
- Medication reminders
- Meal preparation
However, staffing levels and services can vary widely. Some elderly group homes may not have nurses on-site, while others may work with visiting medical professionals.
What Is a Senior Living Community?
Assisted living communities are designed specifically for older adults who require additional support with activities of daily living but do not require full-time medical care.
These communities range in size but are often larger than group homes, offering studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartment options.
Residents have access to:
- 24/7 support from trained team members
- Regularly scheduled health care services
- Meals, housekeeping, and transportation
- Social programs and amenities
At North Point Village, residents enjoy all these features, along with the Connections memory care program for individuals with cognitive changes.
Group Homes vs. Assisted Living Communities
Here are the key differences between these two popular senior living options:
1. Size and Environment
- Senior group homes are small, typically housing six to ten group home residents
- Assisted living communities can accommodate dozens of residents, offering more social opportunities and structured activities
2. Staffing and Medical Services
- Group homes may offer fewer staff members or less access to nursing services
- Assisted living generally includes 24-hour staff and often have licensed nurses on-site or on call
3. Living Arrangements
- Group homes typically offer private or shared bedrooms with shared common areas
- Communities offer apartments with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and more living space
4. Amenities and Activities
- Group homes may have limited programming due to their smaller size
- Communities often have scheduled social activities, fitness classes, entertainment, and wellness programs
5. Cost and Payment Options
- The cost of a senior group home in Spokane can vary depending on services, but it may be lower than a community if fewer amenities are offered
- The cost of assisted living in Spokane averages $6,329 per month (below the state average), according to 2024 CareScout data
Long-term care insurance and private pay are often used for both options.
Comparing Expenses: Group Home vs. Community
It’s essential to examine what is included in the senior group home cost and how it compares to an assisted living monthly rate.
Consider these potential senior group home expenses that may or may not be covered:
- Meal preparation
- Laundry and housekeeping
- Transportation to appointments
- Emergency response services
- Access to a semi-private room or private space
With an assisted living community, those services are often bundled into the cost, providing a more consistent financial picture.
Is a Group Home the Right Fit?
A residential care home might be a good option for older adults who:
- Want a quieter setting
- Need moderate personal care
- Prefer a smaller number of residents
- Don’t need specialized medical support
Keep in mind that services and quality can vary greatly between homes. It’s important to tour multiple places and ask about staff training, resident routines, and licensing status.
Is a Senior Living Community a Better Fit?
An assisted living community might be the better choice if your loved one:
- Needs ongoing health monitoring
- Wants a social calendar and group activities
- Requires memory support or cognitive care
- Prefers apartment-style housing and full amenities
At North Point Village, we offer a balance of independence and medical care, along with access to programs designed to support mental health and memory preservation. Our team provides support for residents in both assisted living and memory care, adjusting services based on each person’s care needs.
Group Living for Seniors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Group homes may not always have dedicated programs for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Many communities do.
At North Point Village, we provide personalized memory care services through the Connections program. We offer secure apartments, compassionate support, and structured activities in a comforting environment.
Our team members receive training specific to dementia and aging-related health care needs. We also conduct regular care plan reviews to keep services aligned with changing conditions.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
Choosing between group homes for the elderly and assisted living takes time and research. Talk with your family members, visit different settings, and ask questions. Think about your loved one’s:
- Current and future health needs
- Social interests
- Budget and retirement account
- Comfort with different living arrangements
Visit North Point Village in Spokane
At North Point Village, we are here to support families through the decision-making process with compassion and expertise.
Whether you are comparing adult family homes or exploring assisted living for the first time, our team can help you find the right path. Our community offers a continuum of care, ranging from support with activities of daily living to a personalized memory care program.
Schedule a tour and learn more about how we provide reliable care and peace of mind in one of Spokane’s most trusted communities.
