What Are Assisted Living Facilities?

Someone who needs help with daily activities, but still wishes to maintain some independence may choose to live in an assisted living facility. Assisted living facilities differ from nursing homes in that they are for people without major medical conditions who can't live alone but do not need constant care. Amenities and services vary depending on the facility and price considerations.

Services

• Assisted living facilities have staff that help residents with baths and dressing, assist in preparing meals or provide meals made in a central kitchen of the facility, do laundry when the resident isn't able, complete household chores and monitor medications for the resident.

Amenities

• Some assisted living facilities offer exercise rooms for residents, storage space for treasured items, televisions and phones in rooms, in suite kitchens, religious facilities, lounge areas where residents can interact with each other and family members and designated parking areas.

Activities

• Assisted living facilities offer activities such as arts and crafts, which allow residents to engage motor skills and show off creativity; group games, which keep people's minds active; performances by outside entertainment, such as local singers, to ensure residents have fun and keep depression at bay; and organized athletic activities to keep residents fit and healthy.

Community Involvement

• Certain assisted living facilities offer group transportation to surrounding towns, where residents can attend community events, go shopping or go to doctor's appointments. Some assisted living facilities give residents the option of driving themselves to neighboring towns, offering living that is even more independent. Different rules apply to each facility, and residents are informed of all regulations before moving in.

Costs

• Medicare will not pay for assisted living, so the resident is responsible for all financial considerations. The price for facilities varies by state. A well-equipped assisted living facility with lots of amenities, specialized care and support and extra services can cost up to three thousand dollars a month. Some assisted living facilities will accept programs to help residents with finances, such as Medicaid and supplemental security income, but most require private pay. Also, some facilities will accept long-term insurance plans and offer financial aid and subsidies.

Terms

• Other terms used when talking about assisted living facilities include retirement residences, supported care, adult foster care, adult homes or adult living facilities, residential or personal care, community retirement facilities or homes, and board and care. Different terms are used in select parts of the country, but they all refer to the same kind of facility.