Assisted Living Facilities
August 7, 2009 in Community Types
Assisted Living Facilities are typically a large community where residents live in an apartment type setting. Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) may vary by size, number of amenities, and price.
Most ALF’s provide the following in their base rate:
- Room and Board
- Three meals and several snacks per day
- Weekly Housekeeping
- Weekly Linen Service
- Utilities, except phone (sometimes cable)
In addition to the base rate, care costs will be added depending on the specific care needs of each resident:
Some facilities calculate these costs based on a “points” system, others on a “levels” system. Each facility is unique, making it difficult to initially compare costs between facilities without an assessment by their staff.
Medicare does not pay for ALF care.
Medicaid may pay for Assisted Living, if the facility carries a Medicaid contract. This does not guarantee that a facility will accept Medicaid clients. Many reserve their Medicaid spaces for current residents who have depleted their funds.
Most Long Term Care Insurance policies will pay for Assisted Living, as long as the policy- holder meets certain requirements for care.
Key Benefits
- Private Apartment Setting
- Structured Activities and Outings
- Daily Assistance Available if Needed
