compared with nursing home care adult foster care offers a family oriented living experience 5 eden alternative not as much an alternative to a nursing home as a philosophy for significantly improving the nursing home experience for residents. Nursing homes have an important role to play by providing care for the sick and elderly my dear granny spent her final days in a nursing home and was well minded by very caring staff her needs were high dependent and she certainly needed to be there. Generally thought of as mother in law suites this could be a great alternative to a nursing home for your senior loved one a private smaller home in your backyard above the garage or elsewhere can provide your loved one with independence while still allowing you to conveniently care for them. Recent news on covid 19 in marylands nursing homes sparks deep concern about the safety of our elderly friends and relatives this concern however should also motivate discussion on viable alternatives to nursing homes at present the maryland department of health reports that nursing homes account for over half of the deaths caused by covid 19. alternatives to nursing home care one of the most difficult decisions faced by family members is the thought of having to move a family member into a long term care facility many older adults and their loved ones may not be familiar with making this kind of decision or the alternative care options available to them