Nonprofit Assisted Living and Nursing Homes in 2024

What Are Nonprofit Assisted Living and Nursing Homes?

All assisted living communities and nursing homes charge residents a fee, but nonprofit facilities are different because any profit the facility makes after all expenses are paid goes back into the facility. No profits are taken by shareholders or anyone else. Many people find the idea appealing because the money stays in-house and is used to meet residents’ needs. But it’s important to note that the majority of assisted living communities and nursing homes are for profit.

The majority of facilities labeled as nonprofits are run by faith-based groups or fraternal organizations, but anyone can choose these facilities because entry is not based on whether you are affiliated with the organization.

Nonprofit assisted living facilities and nursing homes are not owned by hospitals or other medical entities, so many have a mission statement they adhere to each day. That’s also something that appeals to many older adults.

Benefits of Nonprofit Nursing Homes and Assisted Living

Many people find the fact that profits stay in the community or facility to be enough of a reason to choose it over for-profit facilities. Others see a benefit in the facility’s affiliation. A facility run by a Catholic organization, for example, will likely provide religious services and other faith-based activities. The same goes for nonprofits run by other groups. When older adults want to maintain their religious traditions, this is a major benefit that may not be available at all for-profit facilities. Non-profit nursing homes and retirement facilities also tend to allocate more resources to direct patient care than comparable for-profit facilities, which is another draw.1

Nonprofit assisted living and nursing homes are often smaller than for-profit facilities. This is a draw for many older adults. The smaller size can mean a better staff-to-resident ratio. It may also give residents the opportunity to form closer relationships with each other. For many older adults seeking assisted living, nursing homes, and other senior living options, the loss of familiar surroundings can lead to depression. Staying active and making new friends can help keep those feelings at bay and make for happier residents.

Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Communities

There should not be substantial differences in care, but both for-profit and nonprofit facilities will tell you their care is superior. The best thing to do once you find a facility you’re interested in is to do your homework and visit the facility. Create a list of questions to ask so you can get a better understanding of what the community has to offer.

• Does the community receive many negative reviews or complaints?
• Are there health code violations or any other infractions?
• Do residents seem happy?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Are staff members friendly and attentive?
• What care is available?
• What amenities and social activities are offered?

The answers to these questions can help you determine which facility is best for you.

Paying for Nonprofit Assisted Living and Nursing Homes

Medicare typically will not cover assisted living costs or nursing home costs, whether you choose a for-profit or nonprofit facility. Medicaid also doesn’t typically cover costs, but it is decided on a state-by-state basis, so it doesn’t hurt to check the regulations where you live.

For veterans, veterans’ benefits may be available. The Department of Veterans Affairs is a good resource to see if you have benefits that can be applied to assisted living or nursing home costs. Even if the benefits won’t cover the whole bill, any amount is helpful.

Since many nonprofits are run by charitable organizations, a sense of compassion is extended through financial aid. This aid varies by community, so be sure to ask about financial aid at each facility you tour. When there are no aid options available, many older adults turn to their long-term care or life insurance policies to cover the cost.

Questions to Ask Nonprofit Communities

If you are looking into nonprofit assisted living or nursing homes, it’s important to first tour the facility. See the accommodations and residents first-hand. Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I get a warm feeling from staff and residents?
• Can I see myself living here?
• Do I like the accommodations?

If you are generally pleased with your tour, ask about the facility’s mission statement and how the staff goes about upholding it.

• Is it a mission statement you agree with?
• Do you like the way it is carried out?
• Are residents content with the way the facility is run?

It’s also important to ask about activities and other amenities that may be available, as well as any potential differences in costs for certain services. Cost, of course, will be a deciding factor for many. Ask about financial aid if you like the facility, but you’re afraid you won’t be able to afford it.

How Do I Find Nonprofit Senior Living or a Nursing Home Near Me?

Finding a nonprofit assisted living facility or nursing home is as simple as a quick search. Just type in your ZIP code and search our extensive database for nonprofit nursing homes and assisted living facilities in your area. If you need help over the phone, call us. Our staff is available daily from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. PT to take care of your needs.