Assisted living is a facility that provides help to people who may need assistance during their daily activities. Elderly individuals who can primarily function on their own but just require some minor assistance are typically members of an assisted living facility. It's a stepping stone between independent living and an intensive-care nursing home.
Function
Assisted living programs assist highly functional elderly individuals with meal preparation, medication management and medical services, laundry, dressing, housekeeping, transportation and personal care. In addition, recreational activities and programs are often available for elderly individuals to maintain an active lifestyle. Security personnel are on site 24 hours a day to ensure the safety of residents.
Features
Members or residents of assisted living facilities typically have their own living unit or apartment, with staff members always available when assistance is needed. Each unit has access to an emergency call system for any time a resident needs immediate assistance. Many facilities have a cafeteria-type area where scheduled meals are available. Social functions are not uncommon, with games, events and movies being offered for leisure purposes.
Benefits
Assisted living facilities allow elderly individuals to continue to live independently for as long as possible. In addition, while living completely alone may lead to loneliness, an assisted living facility allows them to be around and interact with other people of a similar age who have common interests. Assisted living helps elderly individuals in the areas in which they require it and yet allows them to take care of themselves in areas in which they're still able.
Costs
There are different types of contracts available for those who are interested in becoming members of an assisted living community, depending on the needs of the member. According to the Administration on Aging, the prices can range from less than $10,000 per year to $50,000 per year, averaging $1,800 a month. More fees will be applied for those members who need additional assistance. Some insurance companies may cover some of the costs, and Medicaid is available to help those elderly individuals who need financial assistance.
Considerations
Facilities of assisted living are meant to help those elderly individuals who are mostly independent and can function on their own, but require some minor assistance in certain daily activities. For elderly individuals who are very frail and are unable to care for themselves or have significant health conditions, a nursing home would be the best option.
