There are many options for seniors when it comes to long-term care. Two of the most common are private duty nursing (PDN) and personal care assistance (PDA). So, what’s the difference? In this article, we will discuss the critical differences between PDN and PDA so that you can make an informed decision about which type of care is best for your loved one.
Private Duty Nursing
PDN is provided by a licensed nurse, while PDA is offered through non-medical caregivers. These options have their pros and cons and can be used independently or in tandem with each other. A PDN will typically visit your loved one at home to perform various health care tasks, such as monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing wound care. They also offer emotional support for family members who may be struggling to cope with a recent diagnosis or loss of abilities.
If your loved one needs round-the-clock medical services from a professional nurse, then PDN may be the best option. Keep in mind that private duty nursing care comes with a high price tag – you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $50 per hour, depending on the services required.
Personal Care Assistance
PDA services are typically provided by non-medical caregivers, such as home health aides, certified nursing assistants, or personal care attendants. These caregivers can assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting. They can also help with light housekeeping tasks, meal preparation, and transportation to appointments.
PDA is a more affordable option than PDN, with rates typically ranging from $15 to $30 per hour. One of the main benefits of choosing PDA over PDN is that you can tailor the care plan to meet your loved one’s specific needs. You can choose how often the caregiver visits, what services they provide, and how many hours of care are needed each day.
When To Choose PDN Vs. PDA
When deciding which care option is best for your loved one, there are a few key factors to consider. For instance:
- Does your loved one have a medical condition requiring medical supervision? In this case, you may want to opt for PDN as it provides round-the-clock care from a licensed nurse.
- Is your loved one dealing with memory issues or cognitive decline? If so, they may need more assistance with ADLs than can be provided through non-medical caregivers.
- Are the costs of private duty nursing too high for your budget? You may want to explore other options like home care or adult daycare, which are more affordable.
Which Is Best for You?
Choosing PDN or PDA – or a combination of both – will ultimately come down to your loved one’s individual needs and preferences. If they require around-the-clock care from a licensed nurse, then PDN is likely the best option. However, PDA may be a more affordable and flexible solution if they only need assistance with basic ADLs and light housekeeping tasks.
Conclusion
There are some distinct differences between PDN and PDA. When choosing a long-term care option for your loved one, consider their current health condition and budget and lifestyle preferences. Contact us today if you need help making this decision or want more information about private duty nursing vs. personal care assistance.