Assisted living is a type of residence for older adults who need daily care but not as much care as a skilled nursing home provides. It is designed to provide personalized care in a residential setting for seniors whose health or well-being requires a higher level of support, which is determined through a health assessment by the community according to state regulations. Assisted living communities offer a healthy lifestyle and social engagement, and the most common services offered include medication management and assistance with using the bathroom, dressing, and grooming. Housekeeping, meals, laundry, and transportation services, as well as social programs and activities, are typically included. Staff is available 24/7 to help with safety, care, and support. Residents are encouraged to bring furniture and personal items to make their new home feel like home.
Assisted living is not the same as skilled nursing or nursing home care. In a skilled nursing facility, residents receive full-time care by a specially trained medical staff. People who require a higher level of medical care than what is provided in assisted living may need to consider a nursing home.
Assisted living facilities usually provide residents with their own apartments or rooms, as well as some common areas. They offer around-the-clock supervision and a range of services, including meals, housekeeping and laundry, as well as assistance with personal care and help with medications. Assisted living also aims to offer a “rich social environment” where residents can get plenty of interaction that’s beneficial to their health and mental well-being. That can include social and recreational activities, such as book clubs, trips to movies and concerts, and exercise and wellness programs. Facilities typically offer multiple levels of care depending on what residents need and what they and their families can afford.
