Residents may range from older adults who need meals prepared and a safe place to live to those who may need help with bathing and medications. Some residents use walkers, canes, or wheelchairs and over half may have some level of confusion, or memory loss. CALLRN's database consists of only quality homes with detailed descriptions of each home. This ensures that the home is right for each individual based upon matching needs and wants. If you are unsure if you or your loved one falls into the assisted living category, please take a moment to fill out the Assessment Tool.

Services vary, but the following services are most frequently found in assisted living facilities:
• Private and semi private rooms , with or without private bathrooms, an emergency call system
• Three wholesome meals a day and healthy snacks
• Housekeeping and assistance with laundry
• Assistance available for any activity of daily living
• Reminders to take medication, or staff assistance with medication management
• Transportation, i.e., to the mall, doctor's office, or special treatments
• Social activities geared at keeping the residents as active as they can be
• Beauty shop services
• Reminders to use bathroom at preset times

Each individual will need to weigh the pros and cons of any living arrangement. Assisted living provides needed services while offering various levels of independence. Assisted living is the best alternative for individuals not requiring 24-hour nursing care. Many seniors find that living with others in a small group provide a family-like environment, providing support, interaction, and long-term relationships with each other.

Depression in the elderly is as serious as any health related issues. Depression occurs most frequently with those living alone. If you are unsure if you or your loved one is suffering from depression, please do not wait to call one of our nurses. This is a very crucial condition for seniors.

Costs vary widely depending on private or semi private room, location, services, and level of care provided. Assisted living homes range in price from $50 to $133 per day.

The most important issue in finding housing is protecting the rights of the individual. This may mean that a competent senior may choose to stay in his/her own home rather than enter a nursing home or assisted living home.

The older adult should be fully involved in making the decision to move and with choosing the facility. Should the older adult oppose placement, but cannot safely remain at home, their doctor or one of the nurses at CALLRN can explain the risks and benefits to your loved one-- for example, helping the individual understand that a different living arrangement will help them with their health problems. The doctor can also help determine whether the reluctant older adult is competent to make the decision about a positive move. If an older adult is incompetent, the family must act to protect him/her from harm. The legal appointment of a surrogate decision-maker (guardian) may be necessary.

Many factors can determine what level of care is required or desired. Our initial assessment tool will aid in determining if assisted living is right for you or your loved one.