The Ins and Outs of Assisted Living Facilities
Your Typical Assisted Living Facility Layout
While all assisted living facilities will share some characteristics in common, there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all layout. That's why you'll see good qualities to look for on our infographic instead of hard-and-fast rules for facility layout. In general, it's good to find an assisted living facility that has the following characteristics:
- Private living quarters and bathrooms
- Multiple common areas or shared-living environments
- Easy access to bathrooms from all main areas
- Access to outdoor activities with sitting areas
- A designated dining area for meals and snacks
- Conveniently located staff areas
Variations at Different Assisted Living Facilities
Today there is a vast array of assisted living facilities that offer alternative living environments to suit different tastes and needs. Thanks to a discerning public, "green" assisted living facilities are popping up across the country. These facilities are dedicated to sustainable construction, home- or family-like layouts, and lots of open green space with natural lighting. Other assisted living facilities are true home-based facilities (adult family homes) that won't offer the variety of different spaces, but will instead focus on community living and mutual help. And on the other side of the spectrum you'll find large assisted living facilities located on huge campuses with multiple living areas, dining halls, common areas and a plethora of amenities. If this type of assisted living facility suits your needs, look for campus shuttles, easy access to elevators, and other mobility offerings that will help you utilize all of its services as your needs change and grow.
Visiting Assisted Living Facilities
When you visit assisted living facilities, it's important to keep in mind the aspects of community living that are important to you without forgetting the aspects of layout that are helpful in any assisted living facility (listed above). For more ideas of things to look for during visits to assisted living facilities, see our article, Choosing an Assisted Living Program. And for more assistance learn about the Top Ten Questions To Ask About Assisted Living.
If you are ready to start your search for assisted living facilities, you may do so right here by searching through our detailed directory of assisted living facilities in your area, or by calling the toll-free number above for free, personalized help.
Inside Assisted Living
- Insited Assisted Living Main Page
- A Typical Daily Schedule at Assisted Living Facilities
- How Assisted Living Facilities Use Care Plans
- The Layout at Typical Assisted Living Facilities
- Receiving Occupational Therapy in Assisted Living Facilities
- Typical OT Visits in Assisted Living Facilities
- Interview: Occupational Therapy in Assisted Living Facilities
- Interview: Coordinating Care in Assisted Living Facilities
Guide to Assisted Living
Articles About Assisted Living
- Assisted Living Guide Home
- Levels of Senior Care
- Aging in Place
- Assisted Living Licensing
- Home Assisted Living vs. Assisted Living Centers
- Nursing Homes vs. Assisted Living Homes
- Assisted Living Glossary of Terms
- Christian and Catholic Assisted Living
- Residential Assisted Living
- Veterans Assisted Living
- Finding Affordable Senior Housing
- Links to Elder Care Resources