Assisted Living

What is assisted living?

Assisted living offers private living units for older adults and help with daily activities such as:

• bathing
• grooming
• dressing
• eating
• housekeeping
• transportation
• taking medicine

Meals are provided in most facilities. Health services may or may not be available, depending on the facility.

Who lives in these facilities?

Some residents need meals prepared and a safe place to live. Others need help with bathing and taking medicines. Many residents use walkers or canes. Over half of the residents in assisted living have some level of confusion.

Not everyone can get into an assisted living facility. Most facilities ask that residents be able to get to and from the dining room with little or no help. Some facilities admit people who are incontinent and some do not. Some facilities are just for people with Alzheimer's disease. Assisted living is not for people who need 24-hour nursing care.

What services are available?

Services vary, but the following services are commonly offered:

• rooms (some with kitchens)--you may have your own room, suite, or apartment, or you may share with a spouse or roommate
• an emergency call system
• 3 meals a day and snacks
• housekeeping and help with laundry
• help taking medicine
• social activities and outings

Some facilities also offer:

• barber and beauty shop services
• travel to medical appointments
• healthcare from nurses, social workers, or dietitians

What is the cost?

Assisted living usually costs less than a nursing facility. Costs vary, depending on the location and the services offered. Prices may range from $1,500 to $4,500 a month. Sometimes long-term care insurance or Medicaid will help pay for assisted living.

What are the pros and cons of assisted living?

Before making a decision, it is good to weigh the pros and cons of any housing option. Some of the pros and cons of assisted living are:

• Pros:
  • Assisted living provides needed services while offering some level of independence.
  • You may continue to live near your family and friends.
  • Staff may be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies.
  • It may be better than nursing facility care for some people.
• Cons:
  • There are not many facilities available for older adults with low incomes.
  • Eventually you may need more help than the facility can provide, so you may have to move again.
  • Many assisted living facilities are so large that they can seem impersonal.
  • Children can visit, but you may miss living with different age groups.