Assisted living is a long-term care option for elders who need a level of assistance higher than that of a retirement community, but not as extensive as a medical or nursing home or hospital. Assisted living facilities provide an independent lifestyle with customized assistance.

Assisted living communities offer a unique combination independent living and care. Unlike nursing homes and other medical facilities, assisted living facilities allow elders to maintain a sense of independence and involvement in a social community, while at the same time provide the assistance with daily life and peace of mind that comes with a professional support team.

Assisted Living communities are suited for residents who need assistance in their daily lives, including preparing their meals, facilitating transportation, maintaining their homes, assisting with hygiene, and managing their medication. Assisted living facilities are also good options for some residents living with disorders such as Alzheimer’s, as well as mobility limitations, incontinence, or other conditions common in one’s senior years.

Typical amenities available in assisted living homes may include personal care assistance (bathing, toileting, dressing, eating), access to health care and medical services, on-site social and spiritual activities, recreation and exercise facilities, wellness programs, transportation arrangements, 24-hour security, laundry service, and housekeeping.

It should be an integral part of your decision-making process, urge experts at ALFA. When making a major life decision such as choosing an assisted living community, it’s important to be an informed consumer. Be sure that as a resident you’ll be afforded respect, privacy, religious freedom, the right to voice grievances should they arise, maintenance of your personal finances, and control over health care decisions. Additionally, inquire about internal regulations regarding pets, alcohol, smoking, and other quality of life issues, to see if they correspond with your personal preferences.