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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Assisted Living community?
Assisted living is a long-term care option for elders
who need a level of assistance higher than that of a
retirement community, but not as extensive as a medical
or nursing home or hospital. It provides an independent
lifestyle with customized assistance.
How does it differ from other levels of care?
Assisted Living is a unique combination independent
living and care. Unlike nursing homes and other medical
facilities, Assisted Living residences allow elders
to maintain a sense of independence and are involved
in a social community; while at the same time provide
the assistance with daily life and peace of mind that
comes with a professional support team.
Who
is best suited for an Assisted Living community?
Assisted Living communities are suited for residents
who need assistance in their daily lives, including
preparing their meals, facilitating transportation,
maintaining their homes, assisting with hygiene, and
managing their medication. It’s also a good option
for some residents living with disorders such as Alzheimer’s,
as well as mobility limitations, incontinence, or other
conditions common in one’s senior years.
What types of supplemental services do many
Assisted Living communities offer?
While most Assisted Living communities have 24-hour
supervision and meal services in common, a variety of
additional quality of life services may be available
in your residence of interest, according to the National
Center for Assisted Living’s (NCAL) 2000 Survey
of Assisted Living Facilities. In addition, supervision
for persons with Alzheimer’s or other mental disabilities
can usually be arranged.
What amenities are typically available?
Typical amenities available in Assisted Living residences
may include personal care assistance (bathing, toileting,
dressing, eating), access to health care and medical
services, on-site social and spiritual activities, recreation
and exercise facilities, wellness programs, transportation
arrangements, 24-hour security, laundry service, and
housekeeping.
What are typical costs?
As reported by the 2006 MetLife Market Survey of
Assisted Living Costs, the costs associated with assisted
living averaged $2,968 per month, or $35,616 yearly.
That's up 2.2% or $63 from 2005 and 17.6% from 2004.
Just as Assisted Living residences vary, so too do their
costs, which depends mostly on the size of units, services
offered, and location, according to the National Center
for Assisted Living (NCAL). The MetLife reports concurs
that rates range considerably by region, with North
Dakota the lowest ($1,742 monthly) and the Bridgewater,
New Jersey area the highest ($5,197 monthly). Many long-term
care insurance policies offset some of the costs, however,
reports NCAL, most Assisted Living expenses are covered
by the family of residents, since most elders do not
have such long-term coverage. Medicare does not cover
Assisted Living, but under certain circumstances, some
state and local governments offer subsidies for rent
or service for income-eligible seniors, according to
the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA). Supplement
Security Income (SSI) may also help alleviate some of
the cost, while some residences participate in Medicaid,
grant programs, or other assistance.
How are Assisted Living communities licensed?
According to ALFA, regulations and licensure requirements
vary from state to state. It’s important to do
your research to see if your state requires residences
to be licensed, and if so, whether your residences of
interest have complied.
Quick Links
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Citizens of Metro Atlanta
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