Assisted Living/ Personal Care

Offering needed assistance and rewarding activities

Assisted living/personal care communities - frequently known as Personal Care Communities in Pennsylvania - offer a vital option for older adults who need some assistance with daily living. While the specific amenities will vary, all assisted living/ personal care communities offer basic services including meals, supervision, security and help with personal care needs. For many residents, the help available at an assisted living/personal care community can allow them to continue to live their best life.

In most states, assisted living/personal care communities are registered, licensed or certified by an appropriate department or agency of the state that has a process for issuance of initial licenses and for renewing existing licenses. This process provides basic protections for consumers. 

Residents of assisted living/personal care communities are generally seniors who need some assistance with basic activities, frequently called the activities of daily living (or ADLs). Some communities may accept residents with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. In fact, some communities may specialize in serving individuals with specific medical conditions, including dementia. A few communities serve individuals of any age with developmental disabilities. When reviewing assisted living/personal care communities, consumers should ask about any specializations the community may have.

The services and activities provided in these communities help to promote the quality of life and independence of the residents. One key offering is 24-hour supervision of the residents and the property. Resident safety and security is a priority at all assisted living/personal care communities.

All communities also offer three meals a day in a group dining room. However, dining options can vary dramatically in terms of the meals available and the costs associated with meal plans. 

Finally, all assisted living/personal care communities offer personal care services, also known as help with the ADLs. These services include assistance with bathing, dressing and toileting.

Other services and activities available at some assisted living/personal care communities include:

• Medication management, or assistance with self-administration of medicine
• Coordination of services by outside health care providers
• Assistance with arranging medical, health and dental care services
• Social services
• Transportation services
• Outdoor areas for walking or gardening
• Supervision and assistance for persons with Alzheimer's or other dementias and disabilities
• Recreational and spiritual activities
• Exercise and wellness programs
• Laundry and linen service
• Housekeeping and maintenance

While assisted living/personal care communities do provide a high level of care, it is important to consider what is not provided at these communities before selecting one. Assisted living/personal care communities are a bridge between living at home and living in a nursing home. Assisted living/personal care communities typically do not provide the level of continuous skilled nursing care found in nursing homes and hospitals. For instance, if a prospective resident needs constant care, a nursing home may be a more viable option.

There is no set standard for assisted living accommodations Therefore, options can vary greatly from one assisted living community to the next. For instance, some communities offer private rooms featuring kitchenettes and private bathrooms, while others offer shared units or shared bathrooms. Consumers must consider the prospective resident's personal needs, financial means and personal preferences before selecting a community.

Source: www.ahcancal.org

Article from Retirement Living Sourcebook Summer/Fall 2020