Housing Definitions

Retirement Connection Guide • 1-800-462-1316 Housing Definitions:

Adult Day Care Programs offer a protective setting during the day for those who cannot be left alone due to health care and social needs. The structured program within a community setting offers: socialization, planned activities, care services, companionship, and meals. Adult Day Care provides daytime respite for the caregiver who typically works, needs time for other responsibilities, or simply to take a break. Some programs are designed for older adults with dementia and/or physical limitations. Day Care programs in senior housing communities that are listed in this guide must be able to accept non-residents to be included.

Adult Care Homes or Family Care Homes are private residences that provide a home-like setting, and serve 6 or less residents. The caregiver may perform several functions such as personal care, housekeeping, activities, and group meals. There are three levels of Adult Foster Care Home licenses. The classification system is based on the level of care the Adult Foster Home may provide to residents who live in the home as well as the experience and training of the providers and their ability to assist residents with: personal hygiene, mobility, eating, dressing, toileting, and behavior management. Residents may require very light assistance or may be dependent with several care needs; it is best to ask individual locations for their specific policies and license.

Assisted Living Communities are state regulated rental properties where six or more residents may reside. Care assistance is available, including: medication management, bathing, dressing, toileting, and eating. Some may be fully self-contained private living units with a lockable door, private bathroom, and kitchenette facilities. Accommodations are typically in a home-like setting and may range from a shared bedroom with a common bathroom to private apartments with a kitchenette and a private bathroom. The fee schedule is regular monthly rent along with additional fees for specific services and amenities. Assisted living communities are best suited for individuals who want to remain as independent as possible and who are able to direct their own care. Pricing can vary greatly depending on the level of care provided and the size and amenities of each apartment.

CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities) also known as Life Plan Communities, include a continuum of care from independent living, assisted living, residential care, and skilled nursing services all on one campus allowing individuals to live within the same community as their needs progress through the spectrum of care. They typically offer the full selection of amenities associated with retirement living and an endowment fee, in addition to a monthly maintenance fee, can be expected.

Independent Living Communities provide residents an independent living setting without the burden of home ownership. Typically, residency is established on a monthly rental basis. Residents live in fully equipped private apartments or cottages from studios to large two-bedroom units that may be rental-assisted or market-rate depending on the community. Amenities and hospitality services such as housekeeping, linen service, transportation, and social and recreational activities may be included for an additional charge or may not be available at all. These communities do not provide assistance with activities of daily living or personal care.

Memory Care or Dementia Communities offer or provide care for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia in a home-like environment. These communities must receive an endorsement and are governed by additional regulations that are specifically intended to support individuals with dementia, including: a secure building that alerts staff if a resident has exited, a secure outdoor area that provides outdoor freedom safely, interior finishes that are non-glare and well lit, and visual contrasts between floors, walls, and doorways. Alzheimer’s units must also have programs, which include: gross motor, self-care, social, craft, sensory enhancement, and outdoor activities.

Rehabilitation & Therapy is the treatment for an injury, illness, or pain with the goal of restoring function, including nursing and therapy services. Rehab is ordered by a physician and services are provided by nurses and physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Examples include working with a physical therapist to help you walk and with an occupational therapist to help you get dressed.

Respite Care is short term relief for family caregivers to take a break from the caregiving responsibilities and allows for a healthier and better quality of life for both the caregiver and care receiver. Respite services include: companionship, personal care, recreational activities, and security. Respite care can be provided as a short stay or for a longer period that allows the family caregiver to go on vacation or a business trip. Longer duration respite care is generally found at select senior housing communities although some Companion services may provide this service in the home.

Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) or Nursing Homes are state licensed facilities that provide a safe therapeutic environment for individuals who require rehabilitative care or can no longer live independently due to functional or cognitive impairment. Nursing Homes offer 24-hour skilled nursing care and medical services by registered nurses and support professionals. This is the highest level of care that can be provided that is not hospitalization. Additionally, nursing facilities offer residents planned social, recreational, and spiritual activities. Nursing facilities are most appropriate for people who need 24-hour medical oversight and a protective/structured setting. Most residents must share their room, but residents are allowed to bring personal items to encourage a more home-like atmosphere.

Sources: Aging & Disability Services Department and The Department of Health & Human Services.