Care > Assisted Living > Assisted Living Facts Assisted living is, on average, a more cost-effective option for many seniors than institutional long-term care.

The names of these facilities can vary from being called group homes, rest homes and retirement homes, and they are licensed by whatever state they are located in.  The names of these facilities can vary from being called group homes, rest homes and retirement homes. Assisted living residences can provide up to 3 meals per day, housekeeping, medication monitoring and also assistance with activities of daily living i.e. bathing, eating, etc. When seeking information about a specific residence, it is important to inquire which facilities have these services available for their residences. Be sure to check whether these services can be upgraded if the need arises.

Most modern facilities have private bathrooms and kitchenettes.  Many of them are in the format of a typical apartment and have staff that is available 24 hours a day.  State regulations typically prohibit staff in assisted living programs from providing medical care.  The facilities are designed to maintain the persons right to live as independently as possible.  Many of these facilities allow pets, and offer flexible visiting hours.  The more modern apartment like facilities come equipped with medical equipment such as life lines that connect you to an emergency response system. This type of living can offer the Elder a home with supervision, some assistance while still keeping their independence. Millions of retired Americans are choosing this style of life.  There are many of these types of communities being built across the country.