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Do Assisted Living Facilities Provide Medical Care?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Typical Medical Services in Assisted Living Facilities
Although assisted living communities primarily provide practical, hands-on help with activities of daily living and recreation programs, many also offer simple health care services. Generally, residents must pay for such services on top of the base care package fees. Some facilities have on-call or full-time nurses who perform periodic wellness checks and respond to emergencies. Depending on state regulations, communities often offer medication assistance, and some also provide drug administration services. If rules and licensing terms permit, communities might provide intermittent skilled nursing.
Facilities may contract with third-party providers for visiting health services, such as dental care, foot care and rehabilitation. Some communities offer on-site pharmaceutical and diagnostic services, such as blood tests and imaging. Caregivers typically coordinate off-site physician and hospital appointments, and facilities provide medical transportation. However, seniors with ongoing medical needs usually require a more clinically focused setting.
Other Options for Seniors With Medical Needs
Typical Medical Services in Assisted Living Facilities
Although assisted living communities primarily provide practical, hands-on help with activities of daily living and recreation programs, many also offer simple health care services. Generally, residents must pay for such services on top of the base care package fees. Some facilities have on-call or full-time nurses who perform periodic wellness checks and respond to emergencies. Depending on state regulations, communities often offer medication assistance, and some also provide drug administration services. If rules and licensing terms permit, communities might provide intermittent skilled nursing.
Facilities may contract with third-party providers for visiting health services, such as dental care, foot care and rehabilitation. Some communities offer on-site pharmaceutical and diagnostic services, such as blood tests and imaging. Caregivers typically coordinate off-site physician and hospital appointments, and facilities provide medical transportation. However, seniors with ongoing medical needs usually require a more clinically focused setting.