Frequently Asked Questions about Assisted Living facilities and how to choose one that is right for you or your loved one.
Assisted living communities are a type of long-term care for older adults who require daily care, but who do not require a nursing home level of care. Services common for assisted living communities include meal services, physical and social activities, housekeeping and laundry, assistance with medications, and assistance with personal care, such as bathing and dressing. These facilities typically offer 24-hour care and security.
In Tennessee, assisted living communities are often licensed through the Board of Licensing Health Care Facilities, as either Homes for the Aged or as Assisted Care Living Facilities. Visit the Health Care Facilities Listing, maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health, to find up to date information on licensed assisted living facilities.
Are all assisted living facilities the same?
Assisted living communities can vary from facility to facility based on their specialization and licensing. Some communities offer private rooms within a larger community, or private apartments with a kitchenette. A facility may also have secure units for residents who need specialized care because of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
How do I pay for an assisted living facility?
Cost is one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing an assisted living facility and varies depending on the facility. Factors that impact the cost of assisted living include location, the level of care needed, and the amenities offered at the facility.
Many families use private pay to finance an aging loved one’s time in an assisted living facility. This can include funds from savings, investment, and retirement accounts, as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration.
Medicare does not cover the cost of assisted living communities.
For Tennessee residents who receive Medicaid through TennCare, CHOICES can cover some of the cost of assisted living facilities. To learn more about CHOICES, including eligibility requirements, visit **insert article link** or the Division of TennCare website.
Long term care insurance can be used to cover some of the costs associated with assisted living facilities, however these types of policies have limitations on how much and for how long they will pay out. To learn more, visit the Long Term Care Insurance tab on the Administration for Community Living’s website.
Veterans can be eligible to receive assisted living and other types of long-term care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Learn more by visiting the Geriatrics and Extended Care tab on the VA website, and/or call the VA at 1-800-827-1000.
It is important when picking a facility to ask about all costs and fees related to an individual’s time in an assisted living facility. Some facilities may even offer payment plans or financial assistance to qualifying individuals.
How do I find an assisted living facility near me?
AgeWell of Middle Tennessee offers a comprehensive Directory of Services, including locations of assisted living facilities, the counties served, contact information and hours of operation.
It is important to note that if you are searching to use programs like CHOICES or Veterans Assistance to facilitate assisted living care, you will first need to enroll in these programs and connect with your care counselor to be paired with a contracted facility.
Additionally, the Information & Assistance Hotline offered by the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC), the Area Agency on Aging and Disability (AAAD), is staffed by trained counselors who can help you locate the assisted living facility that is right for you. Call 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678 to speak with one of our counselors.
When are assisted living facilities not enough?
While assisted living facilities are designed to assist with activities of daily living, such as grooming, bathing, dressing and medication management, they may not be enough for individuals who need more intensive care. For people with more complex medical conditions and cognitive impairments, it may be necessary to reassess their care needs for another housing alternative.
What other housing options are there?
Visit some of the other articles listed below on senior housing opportunities to learn more.
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Have more questions? Call Our Helpline
Call our Information and Assistance Hotline to learn more about any of GNRC's programs and services. 615-255-1010 or 866-836-6678