Assisted Living: The Basics

Most people think they'll spend the rest of their lives in their own homes. However as they grow older, they often discover that living at home is no longer practical, convenient, or even safe.

Household chores, yard work, preparing meals – even getting dressed or taking a bath – can tax the limited energy of older adults with health problems.

People with Alzheimer's disease or other memory disorders may need help remembering to take medications, schedule doctor's appointments, or even take out the garbage. If older adults can no longer drive they may feel cut off from the people and activities that are important to them. Concerned family members worry that an older parent living alone could fall or become ill and would be unable to call for help.

SENIOR LIVING CHOICES

Until recently older adults had few alternatives if they could no longer live safely and comfortably at home but did not need nursing home care. For many older people assisted living is the preferred choice.

These facilities offer a homelike environment that accommodates the special needs of older people with physical or memory disorders. Most units have private bathrooms and many have kitchenettes. Special living quarters and services for people with Alzheimer's disease are also available.

ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES

Besides housing designed for the needs and comfort of older people, assisted living facilities also provide an array of services to help residents maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Most facilities provide:

• Assistance with eating, bathing, getting dressed, using the bathroom, and walking

• Housekeeping and laundry service

• Meals and snacks served in a dining room

• Medication management

• Health care available either on-site or at nearby hospitals

• Transportation to shopping malls, churches, libraries and other destinations

• Round-the-clock security and emergency call systems

• Physical therapy and exercise programs

• Social and recreational activities

• Help with dressing, bathing , and other personal care tasks

ASSISTED LIVING COSTS

Fees at most assisted living facilities cover all services, meals, utilities and rent. Some may bill residents monthly. Some also charge application or registration fees. Medicare does not cover assisted living services although some states may pay for certain services through the state's Medicaid program. Assisted living is not covered by Medicare except in certain circumstances. Most residents (or their families) must pay for it out of their own pockets.

PAYING FOR ASSISTED LIVING

Comparing costs of different facilities may be a challenge. At some, fees include everything – room, meals, laundry, health and personal services, transportation and activities. Others may have a rate for basic services with extra charges for health services, laundry or other items.

If your parent doesn't need much help, choose a facility that bills only for services when used. If a full range of personal services – laundry, housekeeping, assistance with personal care – is required, it may be more cost effective to have charges bundled into a single monthly fee.

DOES IT FEEL LIKE HOME?

Choosing to live in an assisted living residence is a big decision for older people. The residence you and your relative choose is likely to be the place he or she spends the rest of his or her life. It's important that it suits your parent's needs and feels like home.

Things to consider if you are thinking that assisted living might be a good choice your parent:

• Begin talking about assisted living before a crisis occurs.

• Visit several facilities together and discuss each one's pros and cons before you both make a decision.

• Talk to residents as well as staff. Observe how staff relate to residents.

• Ask if your parent can spend a day or two in the facility to see what it might be like to live there.

• If your relative is an animal lover, ask if residents can have pets. Some facilities allow pets only if the resident can provide appropriate care for their animal friend.

• Ask for a schedule of activities to see if there are any your relative will enjoy.

• Find out if special diets can be accommodated. Are snacks available in addition to regular meals? Can residents keep food in their rooms?

• See what health care services are available and what arrangements have been made for medical emergencies.

A NEW HOME – A NEW LIFESTYLE

Assisted living focuses on what people are still able to do for themselves. Because they don't have to worry about fixing meals or doing chores assisted living residents can spend their time reading, visiting friends, volunteering or enjoying other pleasant activities. As someone who cares about the wellbeing of an older adult you'll have the peace of mind of knowing that he or she can enjoy an active life in a safe, pleasant environment.