Choosing an Assisted Living Facility S ometimes, older persons need assistance with activities of daily living. Assisted living residences are designed to meet special personal-service and housing needs, and often health care needs as well.
Choices vary from single or double rooms to suites or apartments.
Assisted living residences, also referred to as personal care, residential care, or domiciliary care, may be part of a retirement community, nursing home, elderly housing, or they may stand alone. The goal of assisted living is to help you continue living as independently as possible. If you decide that an assisted living facility is the best option for yourself or a family member, visit a few facilities. Talk to staff and residents, and keep in mind the following checklist of things to look for and questions to ask as you make your decision. Know what services the facility provides, and if these services are provided by the facility's employees, or if arrangements are made with other agencies.