SENIOR HOUSING DEFINITIONS
SENIOR HOUSING DEFINITIONS
SENIOR HOUSING DEFINITIONS ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (ADLs) – Activities involving personal care and mobility such as bathing, dressing, toileting, walking and meal preparation.
INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES (IL) – Apartments and communities for adults 55+ with little or no senior support services (e.g. no meals, etc...).
AGE RESTRICTIONS – Some communities have a restriction on the youngest age they are allowed to accept. These restrictions vary by community.
INSTRUMENTAL ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (IADLs) – Activities involving more complex functioning such as grocery shopping, writing checks, housework, cooking, traveling, and managing money.
ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCES (AL) – Typically apartment-style with kitchenettes and private baths. Assisted living services and personal assistance with ADLs are provided. Rates vary from an all-inclusive to base rates with levels of care. Amenities vary for each residence. In PA there is a licensure distinction between Assisted Living Residences and Personal Care Homes. An Assisted Living Residence in PA is “a significant long-term care alternative to allow individuals to age in place…and [to] develop and maintain maximum independence, exercise decision-making and personal choice” according to PA Code, Ch 2800. ADULT DAY SERVICES – Most providers 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. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING & URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD) Helps apartment owners offer reduced rents to low-income tenants.
INTERMEDIATE CARE – 24-hour inpatient care for residents who need licensed nursing supervision and supportive care, but do not require continuous nursing care. Residents may receive full assistance with ADLs and transfers. Residents receive medications from a nurse following a doctor’s orders and may receive outpatient rehab services. Facilities may use a nurse as their consultant and the residents receive periodic assessments from a licensed practitioner. MEMORY CARE RESIDENCES (MC) – Licensed Assisted Living or Personal Care Homes that specialize in delivering care to patients 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. Specifically trained staff usually serves the special needs of this population. Amenities vary for each community. PA LICENSURE – In PA there is a li-
146 GREATER PITTSBURGH AREA - FALL 2022 - WINTER 2023
