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What is Assisted Living? http://www.alfa.org/WhatsAL.htm <br />size from one room to a full apartment. <br />How is Assisted Living regulated? <br />Regulations and licensing regulations vary from state to state contributing to <br />the wide range of senior housing models considered Assisted Living. Most <br />providers and their staff have special training as a result either of state <br />requirements or company policy. Some states require special staff <br />certification and training. Residences must comply with local building codes <br />and fire safety regulations. ALFA believes the most successful regulations are <br />consumer drive, balancing the safety concerns we all share with the <br />consumers' desires to retain their independence and freedom of choice. <br />What types of services are offered in Assisted Living residences? <br />Services provided in Assisted Living residences usually include: <br />■ Three meals a day served in a common dining area <br />• Housekeeping services <br />• Transportation <br />■ Assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and walking <br />• 24-hour security and staff availability <br />• Emergency call systems for each resident's unit <br />• Health promotion and exercise programs <br />• Medication management <br />■ Personal laundry services <br />• Social and recreational activities <br />What about costs? <br />Costs vary with the residence, room size, and the types of services needed by <br />the residents. Across the nation, daily basic fees range from approximately <br />$20 to $100 -- generally less than the cost of home health services and <br />nursing home care. A basic Assisted Living fee may cover all services or <br />there may be additional charges for special services. Most Assisted Living <br />residences charge month -to -month rates, but a few residences require <br />long-term arrangements. <br />Who pays the bill for an Assisted Living residence? <br />Residents or their families generally pay the cost of care from their own <br />financial resources. Depending on the nature of an individual's health <br />insurance program or long-term care insurance policy, costs may be <br />reimbursed. In addition, some residences have their own financial assistance <br />programs. Government payments for Assisted Living residences has been <br />limited. Some state and local governments offer subsidies for rent or services <br />for low income elders. Others may provide subsidies in the form of an <br />additional payment for those who receive Supplemental Security Income <br />(SSI) or Medicaid. Some states also utilize Medicaid waiver programs to help <br />2 of 3 07/14/99 12:55:14 <br />