Assisted living facilities can also be known by as many as 26 different names/terms. Some of these common terms include: residential care, personal care, adult congregate living care, board and care, domiciliary care, adult living facilities, supported care, enhanced care, community based retirement facilities, adult foster care or adult homes, sheltered housing, and retirement residences. The generic term is ‘Assisted Living.’
Some facilities may be part of a retirement community or a senior housing complex. Some stand alone, while others can be close to a nursing home (enabling a person to move easily should their health condition change).
Residents of assisted living facilities normally have their own apartment or unit, with support staff. Meals are provided. Most facilities offer the following services:
- Health care management and monitoring
- Help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Medication reminders and/or help with medications
- Recreational activities
- Security
- Transportation
When choosing a safe, comfortable, and appropriate assisting living facility, you should consider what your future needs will be and whether the facility will be able to support them. Ensure that the facility provides a written statement of the philosophy of care.
Location is another consideration, as you will want to be close to family and friends and other facilities (shopping, banks, businesses). Before you make a decision you should visit the facilities you are considering more than once and unannounced. Sample the food and observe the quality and service.
Some facilities do not provide support to people with severe cognitive impairments or severe physical disabilities. This is an important consideration should your health require this support. Check to see if the assisted living facilities provide recreational, social, and spiritual activities that interest you.