Enhanced Assisted Living Services 101: What You Need to Know
Assisted living services are for people who have difficulty with daily activities yet still prefer to live on their own. These services are commonly sought by older people who don’t have family members who are able or willing to assist with their care. Communities with assisted living services help residents live a full life.
What Services Does Assisted Living Provide?
There is some confusion about the specific services that assisted living provides to residents. Typically, residential centers with assisted living services offer a combination of housing, personal care services, and medical attention. It’s important to note that residents in these facilities don’t require intensive medical care. Enhanced assisted living residences go a step further in the services they provide.
In addition to providing traditional assisted living services like bathing, dressing, grooming, giving medication, preparing meals, and arranging transportation, enhanced assisted living residences can cater to individuals who may need more care than traditional assisted living communities offer.
These facilities must follow enhanced assisted living residence regulations to obtain a license to operate as an assisted living service facility. Enhanced assisted living residences have lots of staff to help provide personalized attention and care to each resident. This may also include having a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse present to ensure proper treatment.
Enhanced assisted living residences can provide even greater levels of safety for elderly residents with additional features, such as enhanced emergency call systems, secured units for those with memory care issues, and closer supervision.
To provide superior care, enhanced assisted living service providers work with residents’ healthcare personnel and trained nurses. This superior level of care coordination helps ensure residents’ physical, emotional, and medical needs are addressed.
Who Is Responsible for Paying for Enhanced Assisted Living Services?
There tends to be some confusion regarding who is responsible for paying for enhanced assisted living services. Residents usually pay privately for their care or they may have some limited coverage from their insurance. The cost of enhanced assisted living services depends on numerous factors, including the level of care required by the resident. One can also expect to pay significantly more for enhanced assisted living services compared to traditional assisted living.
What Is the Difference Between Enhanced Assisted Living Services and Skilled Nursing?
Enhanced assisted living facilities and skilled nursing are two distinct types of long-term care facilities. Each one offers different levels of care for individuals. Here are the significant differences between the two:
Level of Care
Enhanced assisted living residences offer a more comprehensive level of care than traditional assisted living communities. However, neither of these options matches the level of care provided at skilled nursing facilities. Enhanced assisted living residences benefit those who need extra care in managing chronic health issues or assistance with daily activities. It offers the right level of support without the intensive medical care typically found in a nursing facility.
Skilled nursing homes provide round-the-clock medical care and supervision for individuals with complex medical needs. These needs could be significant disabilities or rehabilitation required following a hospital stay.
Environment
Enhanced assisted living residences provide a home-like environment for those who need extra care and assistance. These residences focus on providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere with private living spaces. They also have access to amenities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Skilled nursing facilities provide a unique environment for individuals who require medical care and rehabilitation. These facilities have a more clinical atmosphere that might include shared rooms and prominent medical equipment.
Cost and Payment
Private pay, long-term care insurance, and in some cases even Medicaid can provide coverage for enhanced assisted living residences. This coverage depends on the specific services needed and enhanced assisted living resident eligibility.
Skilled nursing facilities are more expensive than other types of care due to the level of care provided. Also, the additional equipment and resources available for patients add to the overhead. Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance may cover skilled nursing care depending on the needs and circumstances of a resident.
The 3 Principles of Enhanced Assisted Living Services
The three principles of assisted living services emphasize a philosophy that treats residents with respect and dignity:
Independence and Autonomy
Enhanced assisted living communities offer a unique opportunity for seniors to maintain their independence and lifestyle preferences in a supportive environment. These communities provide personalized care and services that promote autonomy and quality of life among their residents.
Residents have access to leisure activities, social opportunities, and 24-hour medical care. Assisted living communities empower residents to make meaningful decisions about their daily routines.
Personalized Care and Support
A heightened level of personalized care helps ensure residents receive the best possible assistance and care. At enhanced assisted living residences, care plans are tailored to each resident’s physical, mental, and social requirements.
Dignity and Respect
Assisted living facilities also consider their residents’ personal needs. This includes protecting their right to privacy, encouraging healthy self-esteem, and creating an inclusive environment.
If you or a loved one might benefit from enhanced assisted living, don’t hesitate to reach out.
