Kinds of care

What is Assisted living?

Assisted living is a residential setting where people have their own room or apartment and receive help with daily activities, meals and medication, but not skilled nursing.

It is licensed by states rather than federally, so standards and what is included vary widely. Many facilities have a separate memory care wing.

Medicare does not pay for it. Some state Medicaid waivers contribute to the care portion but not the rent.

Why it matters

It is the middle option between home and a nursing home, and the one most often paid for privately.

Sources

Where to check this, and where to read more. All external and all authoritative.

Assisted living where you live

The local guide on this, for each city we cover.

Related terms

All 92 terms, A to Z