Assisted Living

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted Living Activities

The term “assisted living” is one that you have probably heard mentioned at one time or another.  But what exactly does this mean?  Is it the same as a nursing home?

Basically, an assisted living facility or assisted living residence is a place for adults who need help accomplishing some or all of the things they need to get done every day.  For example, they might need assistance or supervision with getting dressed, using the bathroom, taking their medication correctly or on time, and/or bathing.  Staff at an assisted living facility can also help residents with any outside medical care that is needed through coordination and organization.  Care is performed by trained staff people who understand the needs of the older population.

Residents who live in an assisted living facility do not need 24-hour care, so in this respect it is different from a nursing home, where ‘round-the-clock care and help is available.  Assisted living facilities are typically used by older people who still are able to and want to maintain the majority of their independent living; they just need a little more help with certain things.

Some assisted living facilities are located close to hospitals or nursing homes, should a resident need easy and convenience access to either of these things. Some are located in a large home; others are in an apartment-like setting or are part of a retirement community.

Many residents of an assisted living facility have their own room or small apartment. Rooms are usually equipped with a bed and other furniture like dressers, small tables, and chairs. Apartments typically include a small kitchen or kitchenette so the resident, if he or she is able, may prepare snacks and small meals. Each room usually has its own attached full bathroom. Some assisted living facilities offer semi-private rooms with a roommate and a shared bathroom facility. Residents are allowed to decorate their room or apartments with photos, mementos, etc., as well as bring in their own bedding and other comforts of their previous home.

Staff usually assists the residents with tasks like laundry, housekeeping service, and food service. There is often a dining room or central dining hall where residents can go for their meals.

Unlike nursing homes, medical monitoring devices are typically not found in assisted living facilities, and trained nursing staff may not be scheduled at all times. But in most cases, staff will be on hand at all hours to help with other services that are needed.

Some of the larger assisted living facilities have activities available for residents like art and exercise classes, and some provide a place on-site to get a haircut. If a resident needs help with grocery shopping, that service may also be provided.