Assisted Living

What Is Assisted Living?

Individuals who require some additional support with their activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, and dressing, may benefit from an assisted living arrangement. In this co-living residential facility, individuals often have their own apartment or condo with on-staff support who provide care for the residents. Assisted living sits between independent living and full-time institutional care like a nursing home or memory care center.

What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Nursing Home?

An assisted living facility has staff onsite at all times to provide some support for the residents with their daily needs; however, the focus is on maintaining as much independence as possible for its residents. Each assisted living facility may provide unique offerings such as meal programs residents can opt into and social activities. A nursing home provides round-the-clock care to its residents, handling all medication management, in-house medical care, bathing, eating, meal services, and social activities.

Does Medicare Pay for Assisted Living?

Assisted living residential costs are not covered by Medicare as they are considered room and board; however, some of the approved medical treatments or skilled nursing support provided by the assisted living facility may be covered by Medicare. Talk with a representative from the assisted living facility or consult your Medicare plan documents to understand coverage for provided services.