As we age, many seniors consider moving to a care facility that handles daily tasks they no longer wish or are able to manage. Terms like retirement homes and EHPADs often arise, leaving some unsure of the distinctions. Drawing from extensive experience in senior care options, we'll clarify these differences to help you make informed choices.
Retirement homes encompass all residences for seniors, which may be medicalized or non-medicalized. The primary distinction from an EHPAD lies in the level of medical support provided on-site.
A non-medical retirement home does not accommodate dependent individuals. It employs fewer specialized staff compared to an EHPAD for caring for non-autonomous seniors.
An EHPAD—Accommodation Establishment for Dependent Elderly People—functions as a specialized nursing home. It enters a tripartite agreement with regulatory authorities to house dependent seniors. Staff here are trained for such care, with higher numbers than in non-medical homes.
Tariffs in non-medical retirement homes vary widely, with base rates averaging 300 to 1,800 € per month, plus meals, services, and fees.
EHPAD prices also fluctuate by facility, typically ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 € per month per senior.
In retirement homes, the displayed rate is a daily rate. Multiply by 30.5 for the monthly total. This accommodation rate covers basics, with potential additions for dependency and extra services.
The accommodation rate falls to the senior or social aid based on income, including:
The dependency rate, based on the AGGIR grid assessing autonomy, covers:
The care rate is covered by Medicare, funding:
Note: Seniors pay separately for items like:
Neither retirement homes nor EHPADs cover extras like hairdressing or manicure services. Budget additionally for personal comforts such as cakes, chocolates, flowers, and other treats.
Searching for a spot in a retirement home or EHPAD? Try our free online comparator. Receive tailored proposals from vetted facilities—no commitment required. Compare services objectively to select the best match for needs and budget.
