What You Should Know About Personal Care Homes/Assisted Living Residences
With our aging population, personal care homes (also called assisted living residences) have become a popular housing option. There are approximately 1,600 licensed personal care homes serving more than 51,000 residents in Pennsylvania.
Personal care homes offer seniors a community setting with the opportunity to remain independent — with the added benefit of nearby assistance whenever it’s needed. Facilities can design programs to meet individual needs — for short-term stays when support services are required and for permanent residency when chronic conditions exist.
Personal care homes often offer these services and activities:
- 24-hour supervision;
- Three meals a day, often served in a group dining room; and
- A range of services that promote the quality of life and independence of the individual such as :
- Personal care services (help with bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.)
- Medication management, or assistance with self-administration of medicine;
- Social services;
- Supervision and assistance for persons with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and disabilities;
- Recreational and spiritual activities;
- Exercise and wellness programs;
- Laundry and linen service;
- Housekeeping and maintenance; and,
- Arrangements for transportation.