Understanding the Difference from Assisted Living
When it’s time to consider senior care options for a loved one, many families begin researching assisted living communities in Georgia—only to encounter another term: personal care homes. Are they the same thing? How do they differ? And most importantly, which is the right fit for your family?
In this article, we’ll break down what personal care homes are in Georgia, how they compare to assisted living, and what to look for when exploring care options like The Mann House, a small, intimate community offering high-quality support in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
Personal Care Homes vs. Assisted Living in Georgia: What’s the Difference?
In Georgia, both personal care homes (PCHs) and assisted living communities are licensed by the state and offer support with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. However, there are some important distinctions:
Size and Setting
- Personal care homes are often smaller, more home-like environments—sometimes serving as few as 2 to 25 residents.
- Assisted living communities tend to be larger, with 25 or more residents and often multiple floors or buildings.
At The Mann House, we combine the cozy feel of a personal care home with professional, attentive care—allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Level of Medical Care
- Assisted living may offer more extensive on-site medical oversight, including licensed nursing services.
- Personal care homes typically provide non-medical custodial care, but may partner with third-party providers for services like physical therapy, hospice, or visiting physicians.
Families considering The Mann House will find a personalized approach to care, along with close coordination of outside medical services.
What Services Are Included in a Personal Care Home?
While personal care homes are smaller in size, they often provide a wide range of services, including:
- Help with activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Home-cooked meals and snacks
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Medication reminders and monitoring
- Transportation coordination
- Social activities and enrichment programs
The Mann House offers thoughtfully designed activities, strong resident relationships, and attentive caregiving from team members who treat residents like family.
Who Should Consider a Personal Care Home?
- A personal care home can be a great fit for older adults who:
- Need daily assistance but not full-time skilled nursing
- Prefer a smaller, quieter environment
- Value closer caregiver relationships
- Are living with early-stage memory loss or mild cognitive impairment
- Thrive with routine, familiarity, and a home-like atmosphere
For families in Atlanta and Sandy Springs, The Mann House provides a comfortable, close-knit setting where residents are known, loved, and supported as individuals.
What to Ask When Touring a Personal Care Home in Atlanta
If you’re exploring senior living in Georgia, here are some key questions to ask during your tour:
- What is your staff-to-resident ratio?
- How do you personalize care for each resident?
- What safety and security measures are in place?
- Are pets allowed?
- What does the daily schedule look like?
- How do you handle emergencies or changes in a resident’s condition?
- Do you offer memory care support?
You can read more in our companion guide: Top Questions to Ask When Touring Assisted Living Communities in Atlanta »
Why Families Choose The Mann House
Located in Sandy Springs, The Mann House has been supporting Atlanta-area families for over 30 years. We specialize in small-scale senior living that prioritizes personal connections, tailored care, and consistent staffing.
Our focus is on quality over quantity—creating a home where residents and families feel known, respected, and genuinely cared for.
Schedule a Tour Today
If you’re looking for a personal care home in the Atlanta area that offers compassion, consistency, and commitment, The Mann House is here for you. Call us (404)520-9300 at or fill out our contact form to schedule a tour and discover whether our community is the right fit for your loved one.
