Independent Living:
Independent Living Communities provide older adults with needed
services without sacrificing privacy or independence. They are intended for
totally independent living with amenities such as meals, transportation and activities usually
included in a monthly fee. The residents may be on medication but must be self compliant and
ambulatory (assistance such as wheelchair or walker allowed).
Types of Independent Living Facilities:
Seniors Apartments
Active adult community
Retirement facility
Congregate living facility
Retirement Inn
Group home
Assisted Living:
Assisted living facilities (ALFs) are designed for individuals who do not require skilled nursing
care, but could benefit from personal care assistance and support services. ALFs cover a range of
living arrangements from family homes with shared and private rooms to apartment-style living.
The facilities usually provide meals, laundry, housekeeping and assistance with medications and
daily activities such as bathing and dressing.
Types of Assisted Living:
Retirement Inns with Assisted Living
Residential Care Homes (or Board and Care Homes)
Congregate Care
Nursing Homes:
Facility licensed by the state that provides 24-hour nursing care, room and board, and activities
for convalescent residents and those with chronic and/or long-term care illnesses. One step below
hospital acute care. Regular medical supervision and rehabilitation therapy are mandated to be available,
and nursing homes are eligible to participate in the Medicaid program. May be referred to as Nursing
Facility or Convalescent Home.
Types of Nursing Care:
Intermediate Care Facility (ICF)
Nursing/Rehab
Skilled Nursing Facility
Sub-Acute
Continuing Care Retirement Community:
Full service communities offering a long-term contract that provides for a continuum of care,
including retirement, assisted living and nursing services, all on one campus.
