How do assisted living facilities differ from long-term care centers?

Assisted living facilities are designed for individuals who require some level of assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, but who still want to maintain a level of independence. This type of living arrangement is particularly suited for seniors who may not need 24-hour medical care but benefit from support with daily life.

In contrast, long-term care centers provide more intensive services for individuals with significant health issues or chronic conditions that require constant care and supervision. These facilities cater to patients with complex medical needs, including those who may be unable to perform basic activities of daily living without help. The key distinction here is that assisted living is aimed at those who are relatively independent yet still need some support, whereas long-term care is primarily focused on individuals who require comprehensive care due to chronic illnesses.

This differentiation highlights that assisted living facilities do offer some form of support, whereas long-term care centers are specifically designed to accommodate those with more severe health challenges.