ShadowTree Lodge, Inc.

ShadowTree Lodge http://www.shadowtreelodge.com ShadowTree Lodge Assisted Living is a log cabin inspired home that gives you the feeling of being up north. We are located in a secluded setting with beautiful panoramic views that is only minutes away from all amenities of the city of Lapeer, MI. This gorgeous estate presents itself with a winding drive canopied by a patch of woods. The path leads to a large clearing where our rustic log home resides on 3 acres surrounded by an outline of trees on all sides. Wildlife abounds on this serene piece of property. Your loved one will be lounging on the open patio viewing deer, turkey, rabbits, birds and many other woodland creatures. We understand how difficult it is to decide where your loved one will call home—a place where they will be happy, safe, and receive proper care. ShadowTree Lodge satisfies all those desires. We offer 24 hours of compassionate care and companionship tailoring our care to your loved one’s needs to make them feel comfortable and loved. We want them to feel a sense of self-worth, dignity, and respect, ultimately giving them a zest for life again. Our home offers a breathtaking stone fireplace, located in our Family room where they can feel free to socialize with other residents at their leisure. Our Dining room is where nutritional, home-cooked meals will be served 3 times a day and where your loved one can choose to do an assortment of activities. We offer private, furnished bedrooms, complete with closets and dressers for their personal belongings. The bathrooms offer handicap, barrier-free showers and seating for safety precautions. We have Visiting Physicians, Podiatrists, Optometrists, Pharmacy delivery, and Home Health Care (Physical/Occupational/Speech/Nursing care) professionals that come on-site for the convenience of our families. We also provide a Hairstylist and Pastoral care for those who are interested as well. We look forward to taking care of the one you hold dear.
ShadowTree Lodge http://www.shadowtreelodge.com ShadowTree Lodge Assisted Living is a log cabin inspired home that gives you the feeling of being up north. We are located in a secluded setting with beautiful panoramic views that is only minutes away from all amenities of the city of Lapeer, MI. This gorgeous estate presents itself with a winding drive canopied by a patch of woods. The path leads to a large clearing where our rustic log home resides on 3 acres surrounded by an outline of trees on all sides. Wildlife abounds on this serene piece of property. Your loved one will be lounging on the open patio viewing deer, turkey, rabbits, birds and many other woodland creatures. We understand how difficult it is to decide where your loved one will call home—a place where they will be happy, safe, and receive proper care. ShadowTree Lodge satisfies all those desires. We offer 24 hours of compassionate care and companionship tailoring our care to your loved one’s needs to make them feel comfortable and loved. We want them to feel a sense of self-worth, dignity, and respect, ultimately giving them a zest for life again. Our home offers a breathtaking stone fireplace, located in our Family room where they can feel free to socialize with other residents at their leisure. Our Dining room is where nutritional, home-cooked meals will be served 3 times a day and where your loved one can choose to do an assortment of activities. We offer private, furnished bedrooms, complete with closets and dressers for their personal belongings. The bathrooms offer handicap, barrier-free showers and seating for safety precautions. We have Visiting Physicians, Podiatrists, Optometrists, Pharmacy delivery, and Home Health Care (Physical/Occupational/Speech/Nursing care) professionals that come on-site for the convenience of our families. We also provide a Hairstylist and Pastoral care for those who are interested as well. We look forward to taking care of the one you hold dear.
Contact Us Now!
ShadowTree Lodge http://www.shadowtreelodge.com ShadowTree Lodge Assisted Living is a log cabin inspired home that gives you the feeling of being up north. We are located in a secluded setting with beautiful panoramic views that is only minutes away from all amenities of the city of Lapeer, MI. This gorgeous estate presents itself with a winding drive canopied by a patch of woods. The path leads to a large clearing where our rustic log home resides on 3 acres surrounded by an outline of trees on all sides. Wildlife abounds on this serene piece of property. Your loved one will be lounging on the open patio viewing deer, turkey, rabbits, birds and many other woodland creatures. We understand how difficult it is to decide where your loved one will call home—a place where they will be happy, safe, and receive proper care. ShadowTree Lodge satisfies all those desires. We offer 24 hours of compassionate care and companionship tailoring our care to your loved one’s needs to make them feel comfortable and loved. We want them to feel a sense of self-worth, dignity, and respect, ultimately giving them a zest for life again. Our home offers a breathtaking stone fireplace, located in our Family room where they can feel free to socialize with other residents at their leisure. Our Dining room is where nutritional, home-cooked meals will be served 3 times a day and where your loved one can choose to do an assortment of activities. We offer private, furnished bedrooms, complete with closets and dressers for their personal belongings. The bathrooms offer handicap, barrier-free showers and seating for safety precautions. We have Visiting Physicians, Podiatrists, Optometrists, Pharmacy delivery, and Home Health Care (Physical/Occupational/Speech/Nursing care) professionals that come on-site for the convenience of our families. We also provide a Hairstylist and Pastoral care for those who are interested as well. We look forward to taking care of the one you hold dear.
Contact Us Now!
ShadowTree Lodge http://www.shadowtreelodge.com ShadowTree Lodge Assisted Living is a log cabin inspired home that gives you the feeling of being up north. We are located in a secluded setting with beautiful panoramic views that is only minutes away from all amenities of the city of Lapeer, MI. This gorgeous estate presents itself with a winding drive canopied by a patch of woods. The path leads to a large clearing where our rustic log home resides on 3 acres surrounded by an outline of trees on all sides. Wildlife abounds on this serene piece of property. Your loved one will be lounging on the open patio viewing deer, turkey, rabbits, birds and many other woodland creatures. We understand how difficult it is to decide where your loved one will call home—a place where they will be happy, safe, and receive proper care. ShadowTree Lodge satisfies all those desires. We offer 24 hours of compassionate care and companionship tailoring our care to your loved one’s needs to make them feel comfortable and loved. We want them to feel a sense of self-worth, dignity, and respect, ultimately giving them a zest for life again. Our home offers a breathtaking stone fireplace, located in our Family room where they can feel free to socialize with other residents at their leisure. Our Dining room is where nutritional, home-cooked meals will be served 3 times a day and where your loved one can choose to do an assortment of activities. We offer private, furnished bedrooms, complete with closets and dressers for their personal belongings. The bathrooms offer handicap, barrier-free showers and seating for safety precautions. We have Visiting Physicians, Podiatrists, Optometrists, Pharmacy delivery, and Home Health Care (Physical/Occupational/Speech/Nursing care) professionals that come on-site for the convenience of our families. We also provide a Hairstylist and Pastoral care for those who are interested as well. We look forward to taking care of the one you hold dear.
Contact Us Now!

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home Costs and Care Compared

by | Jun 17, 2025 | Assisted Living, Blog

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home Costs

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home Costs: What to Know

Choosing the proper care option for a loved one isn’t just about the price tag—it’s about meeting their health needs, supporting independence, and finding a compassionate environment. Whether you’re trying to decide between assisted living vs nursing home costs or just beginning to explore options, understanding the distinctions between these two is essential. Assisted living offers independence with support, while nursing homes provide more intensive medical care. If you’re wondering, “does my mom need assisted living or nursing home care,” this guide is for you. We’ll explore definitions, services, costs, and what makes each environment unique, helping you make an informed decision rooted in empathy and clarity.

What Is Assisted Living? Supportive Yet Independent

Assisted living is ideal for older adults who can live independently but may need help with daily tasks. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a lifestyle choice promoting autonomy while offering support where needed most. Medication management, bathing assistance, meals, and transportation are included. Residents are encouraged to participate in social events and form strong community bonds, which can help reinforce emotional well-being. Unlike the more clinical setup of a nursing home, assisted living has a homelike feel. The national average monthly cost is about $4,995, which may vary depending on services and location. Learn more about the benefits of senior living communities and how they help seniors age with dignity.

Nursing Homes: Medical-Focused, 24/7 Care

In contrast, nursing homes cater to seniors requiring constant medical supervision due to severe health conditions. These facilities have round-the-clock nursing staff, therapists, and medical professionals. A nursing home is the best fit for those recovering from surgery, living with chronic illness, or facing cognitive impairments. The median monthly cost for a private room is approximately $9,733. Unlike assisted living, the focus here is on healthcare and safety rather than social independence. Many families asking is assisted living the same as a nursing home are surprised to find just how different the care structure is. Understanding that distinction is key in ensuring loved ones get the appropriate care level.

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home: Key Care Differences

The primary difference lies in the level of care. Assisted living supports residents with non-medical needs, while nursing homes are licensed to provide skilled nursing care and other medical services. Assisted living allows for more flexibility in daily routines and offers privacy within apartment-style living. On the other hand, nursing homes often have shared rooms, scheduled routines, and more structured care. Some residents transition from assisted living to a nursing home setting as their health needs progress. See our article on moving from assisted living to a nursing home for deeper insight into this shift.

Comparing Costs: Assisted Living vs Nursing Home

Costs often play a central role in the decision-making process. While assisted living vs nursing home costs differ significantly, both require careful budgeting. Assisted living is typically paid for out of pocket or with long-term care insurance, whereas nursing homes may qualify for Medicaid assistance, especially for low-income seniors. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Assisted Living Nursing Home
$4,995/month average $9,733/month average (private room)
Focus on independence and community Focus on intensive medical care
Mostly private-pay Often Medicaid-eligible

You can find additional financial planning resources via Medicare’s guide and AARP’s tips on long-term care funding.

Retirement Home vs Nursing Home: Are They the Same?

It’s easy to confuse a retirement home vs nursing home, but they serve very different functions. A retirement home is designed for active seniors who don’t require regular assistance—it’s a community of peers living independently with minimal oversight. In contrast, nursing homes offer 24-hour medical care. Understanding what is a retirement home can help you avoid unnecessary costs or mismatched services when choosing a retirement home for your loved one. Retirement homes are more about lifestyle, whereas nursing homes prioritize care and supervision.

Does My Mom Need Assisted Living or a Nursing Home?

If you’re asking yourself does my mom need assisted living or nursing home care, start with a health and lifestyle assessment. Is she still socially active and independent in basic daily functions? If so, assisted living may be ideal. However, if she needs help with mobility, frequent medical care, or shows signs of memory loss, a nursing home may be more appropriate. Regular reassessments by healthcare providers can clarify when a transition may be needed.

 

Assisted Living vs Nursing Home Costs

 

Is Assisted Living the Same as a Nursing Home? Not Quite

A common question we hear is: is assisted living the same as a nursing home? The answer is no. While both serve seniors, the levels of care, autonomy, and cost differ greatly. Assisted living celebrates the independence of seniors while providing a safety net of support. Nursing homes offer a higher standard of clinical care, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. Both serve critical roles in elder care, but their structures and benefits are not interchangeable.

Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider

Selecting between assisted living vs nursing home costs isn’t just a financial decision. You’ll want to consider the emotional, physical, and social needs of your loved one. Consider their ability to engage in social settings, medical requirements, and long-term prognosis. Schedule community visits, ask detailed questions, and observe how staff interact with residents. If you’re still uncertain, professional guidance from a senior living advisor can clarify.

Let Us Help You Take the Next Step

At ShadowTree Lodge, we support families as they navigate this profoundly personal journey. Whether you’re still deciding between assisted living vs nursing home costs or you’re ready to explore options, we invite you to see the difference for yourself. Schedule a tour with us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your loved one thrive in a supportive, caring environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more expensive,a nursing home or an assisted living?

Nursing homes are generally more expensive than assisted living facilities. This is because nursing homes provide a higher level of medical care and supervision, often including 24-hour skilled nursing services. Assisted living, on the other hand, offers help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meals, but not intensive medical care. As a result, the cost difference can be significant depending on the level of care needed.

How long do most people stay in assisted living?

Most residents stay in assisted living for an average of 22 months to three years, but the length of stay can vary based on individual needs, health conditions, and personal preferences. Some residents may transition to a nursing home if their care needs increase, while others may return home or remain in assisted living for the rest of their lives. The goal is to maintain independence while receiving needed support.

Why do people end up in assisted living?

People often move into assisted living when they need help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meal preparation. It’s a common choice for older adults who value independence but can no longer live safely alone. Assisted living communities also provide social opportunities and a safe, supportive environment. Families often choose assisted living to ensure their loved one is well cared for.

What is the biggest problem in nursing homes?

One of the biggest challenges in nursing homes is understaffing, which can affect the quality of care residents receive. With fewer staff members available, providing timely assistance and personalized attention becomes harder. This can lead to issues such as neglect, medication delays, or increased risks for falls and infections. Many facilities are working to improve staffing levels and training to address this issue.