Assisted Living Centers
Assisted living centers offer the peace-of-mind of being able to contact help 24-hours-per-day. Night or day, help can be accessed with a phone call. At the same time, both privacy and independent living are strongly encouraged.
A good assisted care center will evaluate the needs of its residents and will work with each individual to develop a personal plan. This ensures any adjustments needed to accommodations or disabilities are met. This allows seniors the freedom to make their own choices.
Assisted care centers usually offer accommodations that are similar to hotel rooms. Clients may pay more for private rooms and spouses are allowed to reside together, such as large and spacious suites that may provide microwaves and refrigerators. Services provided at a typical assisted care center include:
- Three meals daily, usually offered in a common dining room
- Housekeeping services
- Emergency call buttons in each resident's room
- Management of medications
- Assistance with activities including bathing, eating, dressing, bathroom needs and walking
- Laundry services
- Transportation
- Social activities
- Regular access to health and medical services
Assisted living centers usually cost less than assisted care housing. Private, long-term-care insurance may cover assisted care centers. Medicare has no such provisions for coverage, but Medicaid and Supplemental Security income may provide benefits. Seniors with VA benefits may have access to special VA assisted care centers.
Assisted Living at Home
Assisted living at home is a type of care for seniors who need help with their day-to-day activities, but would prefer to live in their own home versus residing in assisted living facilities. Costs of assisted living at home vary according to caregiver skill level. Seniors may choose family caregivers, home caregivers or home health aides. Care is usually paid for on a per-hour basis. In-home assisted living services can include:
- The preparation of senior meals
- Housekeeping services
- Medical care services
Assisted care at home is covered by both private insurance and Medicaid.
Assisted Living Agencies
Deciding between assisted living facilities and in home assisted living is difficult. There are several assisted care agencies that provide help and information. It is important to check with assisted care agencies located within the state of the client's residence as state laws, rules and regulations may vary.