|
With a few
exceptions, assisted living is a person's home where
meals and supportive services are available when needed.
The exceptions include respite stays when family caregivers
are not available and temporary stays for recuperation
or rehabilitation. Assisted living is based on a philosophy
of maximum independence, dignity, choice and autonomy
for each resident.
Persons who need some help with bathing, dressing, other
types of personal care, medications, cueing or supervision,
shopping, cooking, housekeeping, or do not wish to live
alone may find assisted living very attractive. The
majority of assisted living residences are for seniors,
often in their 80's, either single or married. Many
assisted living residences have special care sections
or programs for persons with Alzheimer's or other memory
impairments. Some residences have younger adults with
a variety of disabilities including mental illnesses.
Services in assisted living residences usually include:
- Meals
in a common dining area
- Housekeeping
services
- Transportation
- Assistance
with eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, and walking
as needed
- Cueing
and supervision
- 24 hour
security and staff availability
- Wellness
and exercise programs
- Medication
management
- Personal
laundry
- Social
and recreational activities
- Emergency
call systems
The
cost of assisted living varies with the residence, the
room size, and the services needed by the resident. Some
assisted living residences charge a fixed fee for room,
board, and all services. Others have a fixed fee for room
and board plus charges for the services actually used.
Residents sign a residency agreement.
Residents or their families usually pay with their own
financial resources. Depending on the nature of the residentís
health insurance program or long-term care insurance policy,
some or all of the cost may be covered. In addition some
residences have their own financial assistance programs.
Low income persons who cannot afford assisted living may
qualify for either a special SSI (Supplemental Security
Income) payment or a pilot Medicaid program. Discuss these
programs with a participating assisted living provider
or call the Department of Elderly Affairs at 401 222-2858
for more information.
Home About RIALA
About Assisted Living
Find a Residence
Other Resources
Calendar/News
Employment
Reply to RIALA
Partners & Members
|
