Assisted Living (ALF)

On senior living tours, guides often direct your attention to the shiny features they’re proudest of. These amenities may be great, but this checklist of essentials can clue you in to the subtler indicators of a quality community.

Differences between assisted living and independent living include supportive and medical care, amenities, costs, and residential spaces.

What's a caregiver to do when their elderly parent refuses assisted living or nursing home care but isn’t safe at home? In some cases, guardianship may be an option.

Most seniors cover assisted living costs with savings, Social Security, retirement funds, and home equity. Some government programs and financial tools may help, too.

When talking to aging parents about assisted living, acknowledge why they might want to remain at home and reassure them that the decision is theirs to make.

Striking a careful balance is crucial when it comes to visits and family involvement at a long-term care facility.

The transition to senior living can be difficult for the whole family, but careful research, plenty of tours, and a few personalized touches will ensure that you find the best housing option for your loved one.

Short-term assisted living allows older adults to experience the benefits, services, and amenities of senior communities on a trial basis.

Moving to a senior living community is always a significant life change. When couples can remain together, the transition may become a little easier.

You know that Mom and Dad could benefit from the social interaction, safety measures, and hands-on help that assisted living provides, but how do you get stubborn aging parents to move to an assisted living community?

It may be time for assisted living if a senior is unable to manage their health, hygiene, household responsibilities, or medications.

Considering assisted living? When it comes time for a senior to find and transition into assisted living, caregivers and family members have lots of question. We've compiled common questions about finding, paying for and moving to an ALF.

When considering the many different types of senior housing communities available, you may be faced with the decision to rent or buy. It’s important to consider an elder’s future care needs and finances before deciding which option is best.

Assessing basic ADLs and instrumental ADLs helps determine the level of care a senior needs and what programs and benefits they may be eligible for.

Actress Connie Shulman discusses the life-altering impact of learning that her friend had frontotemporal dementia, and the importance of bringing awareness and support to families dealing with a dementia diagnosis.

A healthy sex life is important for all adults, and becomes even more essential as a person gets older, but sexually active seniors aren't often offered enough educational or emotional support from the elder care facilities where they live or society in general.

It’s impossible to anticipate how a senior may interact with other residents and staff in settings like assisted living facilities and nursing homes, but staff should be prepared to handle difficult interpersonal issues and defuse tensions.

Senior living communities conduct a needs assessment that measures potential residents’ physical and cognitive abilities to ensure that a senior’s needs match the services the community is able to provide.

A hospital stay can seriously affect a senior’s health and independence. Understanding the common issues that occur during care transitions will help you and your loved one know what to expect and ensure the discharge process goes as smoothly as possible.

Deciding what type of long-term care an aging loved one needs is far more complex when dementia is a factor. Explore senior housing options and the limitations of each when considering the appropriate level of care for a senior with dementia.