As people age and require more aid with everyday activities, such as taking medication or bathing, moving to a facility that provides some support, without sacrificing self-reliance, might be an option. This type of environment, called assisted living, has emerged in the previous two decades as an increasingly available alternative for housing and long term care. In 1999, one third of the facilities that offered assisted living facilities in little rock arkansas services had actually been in existence for less than five years, and 60 percent had existed for less than a decade, according to research study published in the journal Health Affairs. The growth of assisted living facilities has leveled off in recent years, however, as the financial downturn hindered new construction and occupancy rates.

 

In 2007, there were roughly 38,000 assisted living centers nationwide, serving about 975,000 residents. The overwhelming majority of assisted living residents in the U.S. are female, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. Among the most typical types of facilities that provide assisted living are called community care retirement communities, which provide a stepwise approach to care, states Kerry Peck, an elder law attorney based in Chicago. "The concept is you age in place," meaning you never have to leave the grounds for housing, he says, "You buy an apartment or cottage, and then as your health declines, the facility agrees to provide continuing care. Some of the most effective [centers] have independent living, then assisted living, then a nursing home for acute care.".

 

But similar to choosing whether a nursing home is required, the decision to move into an assisted living facility is not a simple one. So what factors should you think about when trying to find a location to transfer to? Initially, think of what activities you or your loved one need help with. People residing in assisted living facilities may need support with any variety of day-to-day activities, such as dressing, bathing, using the bathroom, cooking, or eating. About 87 percent of residents need aid preparing meals, for instance, and 81 percent need assist with handling or taking their medications, reports the NCAL. Most residents originate from living in private homes or apartments; fewer originated from living with adult children or other family members, from nursing home centers, retirement or independent living communities, or another assisted living or group home.

 

For some people, however, assisted living may not be an option, mostly for financial reasons. Assisted living centers cost an average of $34,000 yearly, as compared to about $74,000 each year for a nursing home, according to research published in January in Health Affairs. How this expense is paid varies. Residents can buy into a center by paying a large, upfront sum of cash, followed by smaller monthly assessment fees. Or if the resident go with a facility where he can rent instead, he would pay month-to-month for the cost of housing and care. The facilities are likewise mostly located in areas where home values are higher and people close by have greater incomes. Because of this, people with low incomes, minority groups, and those staying in rural areas do not have much access to assisted living centers, the study reports. Also, some states are home to more assisted living facilities than others. Minnesota, Oregon, and Virginia each had more than 40 facilities per 1,000 senior residents, according to the research, while Connecticut, Hawaii, and West Virginia each had less than 10 facilities per 1,000 senior.

 

If you are considering an assisted living facility for yourself or a loved one, here are considerations to assist guide you:.

 

- Reflect on what is most valuable in you or your loved one's life.

- Consider your existing and future needs.

- Evaluate the financial stability of the center.

- Make sure the facility is licensed to guarantee it fulfills your state's assisted living policies.

- Get referrals.

- Ask if there is a waiting list when you make first contact with the center.

- Go to a few times before you agree to move in.

- Talk with present residents.

- Get a copy of the contract and show it to a legal representative.

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