Canada: Assisted Living Facilities and Communities

WHAT IS ASSISTED LIVING?

Assisted living is often viewed as the best of both worlds. Residents have as much independence as they want with the knowledge that personal care and support services are available if they need them. Assisted living communities are designed to provide residents with assistance with basic ADLs (activities of daily living) such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and more. Some states also allow assisted living to offer medication assistance and/or reminders. Assisted living communities are different from nursing homes in various ways. For one, assisted living facilities do not offer complex medical services.

Assisted living communities range from a stand alone residence to being one level of care in a CCRC (continuing care retirement community). Assisted Living facilities and communities offer a more home-like atmosphere with apartment styles that typically include studio and one bedroom models. Kitchenettes usually feature a small refrigerator and other small appliances.