Frequently Asked Questions
Still need help finding the answer to your question? Below, we’ve provided a list of commonly asked questions by families and potential residents. You can reference the list below, if you do not find the answer to the question you’re looking for here, feel free to contact our team!What services and arrangements are provided by an Assisted Living community?
At Community Senior Life, our Assisted Living communities provide each client with a separate living unit that includes a lockable door and private bathroom. The resident can receive assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility), as well as assistance with medication. Daily meals, transportation, and weekly housekeeping and laundry are included in the price. Additional services may be arranged with third-party providers, subject to any related policy of the Assisted Living community and state regulations.
Can I have physical therapy at the community?
Community Senior Life has on-site therapy services available to the residents whose physicians recommend physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
Is an Assisted Living community the same as a nursing home?
No – Assisted Living communities are defined and regulated differently than nursing homes, although some of the same services are provided. For example, both Assisted Living communities and nursing homes can assist with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and mobility. However, nursing homes can deliver skilled nursing services, while a resident in an Assisted Living community must directly arrange with an outside agency or individual to receive these types of health care services.
Is Memory Care simply Assisted Living in a locked unit?
While Memory Care is a secure neighborhood, the approach to care and service is very different. All staff engaged in our Memory Care neighborhood have special training and a passion for supporting those living with dementia. Both routine and flexibility are key components of creating a fluid environment where we, as staff, adapt to resident needs, instead of asking residents to adapt to staff schedules.
Are Assisted Living services the same in every state?
No – states have different definitions of Assisted Living and different regulations.
Will an Assisted Living or Independent Living community provide me with transportation to my doctor, etc.?
Yes – Community Senior Life includes transportation assistance in its lease agreement.
Do I have to share a living unit (i.e., apartment) with another resident?
No – you can request to share a living unit with a spouse or relative, if you wish, understanding that appropriate fees and requirements apply.
Do I have to sign any legal papers?
Yes – CSL communities are required under law to provide you with a lease agreement for your thorough review, which then must be signed. This lease agreement addresses all provisions, policies, rights, responsibilities, and protections for both the client and the community.
Can someone help me take my medication?
Community Senior Life will have Certified Medication Aides to assist with or administer medications, as ordered by a physician.
Can I bring furniture and furnishings for my living unit?
Yes – we encourage residents to bring their own furniture, furnishings, and keepsakes!
What determines the cost of living in an Assisted Living and Independent Living community?
The cost of living in either an Assisted Living or Independent Living community will usually depend on the size/type of your living unit and the services you need. Assisted Living communities are required to disclose all available services and fees.
Are Assisted Living community employees required to be trained?
Yes – all staff is trained in first-aid and CPR. In addition, employees are required to be trained on a variety of key topics applicable to their assigned duties. Some positions require specific certifications, such as Certified Medication Aides.
Does long-term care insurance pay for services in Assisted Living communities?
Most policies sold today are comprehensive. They typically allow you to use your daily benefit in a variety of settings. For more information, you can contact The Administration for Community Living. (ACL) is the Administrator of the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information Administration on Community Living Washington, DC 20201, Phone: 202-619-0724, aclinfo@acl.hhs.gov. If you or your spouse is/were a veteran, you may qualify for a veteran’s benefit called Aid and Attendance.