Assisted living is generally considered a compromise between in-home private care and nursing home care.
It is for individuals that cannot function independently in the home, but do not need around the clock 24-hour care provided by nursing homes.
Assisted living facilities provide supervision and assistance with assisted daily living activities such as administering medication, hygiene, and other personal care services.
Because they are regulated and licensed at the state level, the definition of Assisted Living, varies from state to state.
The living arrangements vary from dormitory style to hotel room arrangements to apartment style.
The newer assisted living facilities are generally constructed like apartments with trained staff available around the clock.
Nurses may not be available on call, but there is always some type of trained staff available.
The typical resident of an assisted living facility is someone who needs assistance with three or more activities of daily living.
They are typically elderly, in their mid to late 80s and does not require 24 hour assistance like the type in nursing homes but appreciates companionship.
Assisted living facilities are very helpful in reducing isolation for seniors that would otherwise be living home alone.
Many assisted living facilities contain central dining areas to socialize.
With the population of the United States aging, more and more assisted living facilities are springing up in just about every city.
The costs can often be offset by Medicaid, but do not expect to receive too much help from the government.
Most of the money will come out of retirement savings and money out of your own pocket.