by Cynthia Wells

Created on: April 24, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

During the retirement and aging process, many families must explore some type of assisted care for themselves or a family member. During this time there is not a need for a nursing facility but rather a need for assistance with daily activities. Assisted Living is supportive services designed to help with common daily activities such as meal preparations, eating, bathing, toileting and housekeeping, known commonly as ADLs. These services do not include medical care such as rehabilitation, palliative or medical treatment. All facilities offer case management and medication management.

Several options are available that offers differing levels of services. While there is not an industry standard, most assisted living facilities can range from apartments and cottages to a high-rise building.

Residential homes are assist living facilities that are usually privately owned and houses three to eight residents in private or semi private rooms. These homes are more restrictive than other facilities. Daily supportive services are scheduled thereby requiring less planning on the part of the resident. This is also the most cost effective of all assisted living arrangements.

Senior living communities offer apartments, cottages or homes where the resident has much more control and decision making opportunities daily. They enjoy the ability to decide how many and how much of services they want. Residents also have the option of obtaining home health aides or other medical services should the need arise. They can enjoy the security of a senior community, assistance with ADL's, and emergency call help buttons. Some residents are able to drive to appointments and grocery shop but transportation is offered if they are unable to. This type of assisted living is the most expensive but often offers more perks.

Larger facilities are commonly high-rise buildings and may house many more residents than a family cares setting. These facilities also offer more managed supportive care such as meal times in a community setting, recreational activities, housekeeping, laundry and transportation. Residents can have private or semi private living arrangements and share common areas such as dining room, dens, library, and baths. Some of these services are included in costs and are automatic without much decision making for the resident. Cost varies with these facilities. Many offer services to low income residents while others target upper income levels.

All facilities are regulated by their respective state however the level of regulations varies. Most facilities honor the Patient Bill of Rights, HIPPA and local fire and health department recommendations for safety.

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