Placement in an assisted living community can ease a
family?s burden of looking after a loved one long distance,
knowing that they are receiving personalized service and care.
Whenever possible the decision to choose an assisted living
community should be discussed fully with other family members,
a social worker, case manager, hospital discharge planner, financial
planner, or spiritual advisor. These individuals can be helpful
in making sure that the potential residents? needs will be met
and that the resident and family feel comfortable with the move.
Defined as a combination of housing (individual apartments or rooms, meals, housekeeping and laundry services),
personalized support services (transportation, activity supervision, and health status monitoring) and health care
services (assistance with basic activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living) in a
non-institutional setting. It is an idea that recognizes that many elderly need assistance but don?t need a nursing
home. Assisted living emphasizes the social and personal requirements of residents who need some assistance with daily
activities and health care, but who desire and deserve to age with dignity. The concept is designed to respond to the
individual needs of seniors who require assistance with certain activities of daily living, but do not need the level of
health care provided in a skilled nursing facility. Subject to inspection and licensure under the Department of Health
and Social Services.
Advantages:
Combines the advantages of independent housing, supportive services, and social activity. Allows greater independence
than institutions that stress long-term nursing care. Allows a frail elderly individual to live and function in a safe,
homelike environment. Stresses independence, personal dignity, and involvement of family and friends. Cognitively
impaired individuals are not excluded from residence if they meet other entrance criteria.
Limitations:
Prospective residents must satisfy the provider's financial, behavioral, and medical standards.
Cost:
Facilities charge $2000.00 to $3000.00 per month, depending upon the services required or provided.
Assisted Living and the Nursing Home
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