Choosing assisted living can feel like a big step, but it’s often the right one when someone needs help with daily tasks and staying safe. This guide breaks down what it takes to qualify for assisted living, what to expect during the process, and who might not be a good fit for this type of care.
Be the Right Age
Most assisted living communities have a minimum age requirement. In many places, residents need to be at least 55 years old. Some communities require residents to be 62 or 65. This age rule helps keep the community focused on people with similar life stages and needs.
That said, age is just one part of the equation. Meeting the age requirement doesn’t mean someone will automatically qualify. Other health and care factors are just as important.
Be in Stable Health
Assisted living is for people who don’t need round-the-clock medical care but still need support with everyday life. Someone with stable health—meaning they don’t have serious health emergencies often—may be a good fit.
Common conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes are okay if they are managed with medicine or routine care. However, people who need constant monitoring or skilled nursing (like those who are bedridden or recovering from surgery) may need a higher level of care, such as a nursing home or hospital care.
Be in Need of Support with Daily Activities
A major reason people move to assisted living is because they need help with activities of daily living, also called ADLs. These include:
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Grooming
- Walking or getting around
- Using the bathroom
- Eating
- Moving from a bed to a chair (called transferring)
A person who struggles with a few of these tasks may qualify for assisted living. Staff in these communities are trained to offer just the right amount of help so residents can stay as independent as possible.
Who Might Not Qualify for Assisted Living?
Assisted living is not a fit for everyone. Some people may need more advanced care or support than assisted living provides.
People who might not qualify include:
- Those with severe memory problems from advanced dementia or Alzheimer’s disease who wander or can’t recognize where they are
- Individuals who are fully bedridden and need full-time nursing care
- People with major medical issues that require constant supervision, like serious infections or breathing problems that need machines
While some assisted living communities have special memory care units for early dementia, those with late-stage memory loss often need specialized care in a different setting.
Physical and Health Assessments Are Often Required
Before moving in, most assisted living communities require a health assessment. This helps make sure that the person is safe to live there and that the staff can meet their needs. The assessment may include:
- Physical health exam
- Review of medications and how they’re managed
- Checking memory, thinking, and problem-solving skills
- Vision and hearing tests
- A look at how well the person can move, walk, and handle personal care tasks
These assessments aren’t meant to be scary or stressful. They help the community prepare the right care plan and offer the support a resident needs.
Paperwork and Agreements
Once someone is approved for assisted living, there’s usually paperwork to complete before moving in. These forms cover:
- Health history
- Emergency contact info
- Financial agreements
- Community rules and expectations
Families may also need to sign agreements about payment, services provided, and what happens if the resident’s needs change over time.
Memory Care and Special Support
Some assisted living communities offer special care areas for people with memory conditions like early-stage dementia. These units have trained staff, secure spaces, and support routines that help with confusion or wandering. People who are still mostly independent but have early memory problems may be eligible for these programs.
However, people with severe memory loss who can’t care for themselves or stay safe might need to move to a skilled nursing or memory care facility outside of standard assisted living.
What If Someone’s Needs Change Over Time?
It’s common for a resident’s health to change. Assisted living communities regularly review each resident’s care needs. If someone begins to need more help than the community can give, families and staff will talk about other care options.
Some communities can adjust care levels. Others may help the family find a nearby care facility that better meets new needs.
A Note About Costs
Most assisted living is paid for privately. Medicaid may help cover costs in some states, but the person still needs to qualify based on both care needs and income. Long-term care insurance may also help cover part of the cost, depending on the plan.
Be sure to ask each community about pricing, payment plans, and what services are included.
Talk to Someone Who Can Help
Going through the decision to move into assisted living takes time, planning, and support. Families often have many questions, especially about whether their loved one qualifies.
If you’re considering assisted living for yourself or someone you care about, speak with a team that understands how it works. Salines-Mondello can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you find the care that fits your family’s needs.
Call (910) 777-5734 today to learn more about assisted living options and find out if it’s the right choice for your situation.