SENIOR HOUSING DEFINITIONS
Senior Housing Definitions AFFORDABLE SENIOR HOUSING – Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), helps apartment owners offer reduced rents to low-income tenants. AGE RESTRICTIONS – Some communities have a restriction on the youngest age they are allowed to accept. These restrictions vary by community. ALZHEIMER’S / DEMENTIA ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY – Licensed assisted living facility or skilled nursing facility that specialize in delivering care to victims of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Communities are typically bedroom-style rental units with common areas for dining and activities. Many are locked for residents’ safety. ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY – Typically apartment-style with kitchenettes and private baths. Some offer companion accommodations. Personal assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, eating and ambulation. –T ype A facility cares for residents who do not require routine attendance during sleeping hours and are capable of following directions in an emergency. –T ype B facility is for residents who require staff assistance to evacuate, are not capable of following directions in an emergency and require nighttime attendance.
106 GREATER DALLAS – SPRING 2022–2023
DAY CARE – Any provider can elect to provide day/night services on a short or long term basis. Rates typically include a place to rest, one or two meals and snacks and activities for the day. Licensed communities are prohibited by law to promote these services without a specific license. INDEPENDENT HOUSING – Apartments and communities for adults 55+ with little or no senior support services (e.g. no meals, etc...) INTERMEDIATE CARE – 24 hour inpatient care residents who need licensed nursing supervision and supportive care, but do not require continuous nursing care. Residents may receive full assistance with ADL’s and transfers. Residents receive meds from a nurse following a doctor’s orders and may receive outpatient rehab services. Facilities may use a nurse as a their consultant and the residents receive periodic assessments from a licensed practitioner. LONG-TERM CARE – Chronic, custodial care provided on an on-going basis. MEDICAID WAIVER – An assisted living waiver may be used to transition individuals out of nursing facilities or to provide persons at risk of institutionalization with options for remaining in their communities. Assisted living waivers are designed to provide an alternative to more costly nursing home care.
