Who qualifies for assisted living? How do you know if a senior requires assisted living?

Assisted living is typically intended for seniors who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, but who do not require the round-the-clock medical care provided by a nursing home. Some factors that may indicate a need for assisted living include difficulty with daily tasks, limited mobility, and chronic health conditions. A healthcare professional or geriatric care manager can assess an individual's needs and determine if assisted living is the appropriate level of care. Each State has different regulations for assisted living facilities to perform assessments and determine who qualifies for assisted living.

In general, if a senior is having trouble with daily activities and living independently, they may be a good candidate for assisted living. For example, many seniors living in assisted living facilities require help with walking, getting dressed, bathing, getting out of bed, or going to the bathroom.

Last updated: January 25, 2023