Breaking Down Assisted Living Homes and Their Fundamentals

The “Assisted Living Basics” video describes to loved ones what a long-term assisted living facility (ALF) is.

Assisted living homes are different from nursing homes, which have more restrictions. In an ALF, a client can stay independent for as long as they are able, with fewer “rules” about when and where they can go.

Sofia mentions “socialization” as part of the home placement criteria for a senior parent.

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Sofia also says that an ALF is “halfway between your own home and a nursing home.” For instance, residents can stay in their private living areas and eat there. Otherwise, they can join the others in the common dining area.

If they’re able to dress and bathe themselves, they may continue to do so without staff help. However, that type of assistance is always there when seniors decide they need it. Some memory care services may also be provided when necessary.

Some assisted senior homes exist on the first floor, spreading out horizontally like a ranch house. Others may look like a high-rise apartment complex on the outside.

Different design models and required services may affect the prices. For instance, some are simplistic and homey. Others are contemporary and equipped with modern automated amenities. Any advanced care needs may be sold separately from the original residence rate.

They come in different resident numbers, from about 20 to 200 living onsite. The smaller group homes have a different “feel” than the larger ones. Sofia advises checking multiple ones in the location where the senior.