Types of Senior Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in New York

If you have a family member who needs a different or higher level of care than can be provided at home, there are a number of available options.  The following list can help you determine which type of facility might be most suitable to your loved one’s needs.

Independent Living Communities
In these facilities, residents maintain full choice and control over their daily lives.  Therefore, they must be able to function independently, able to bathe and dress themselves, be mentally alert and able to walk, and have bowel and bladder control.  Housing styles range from single family homes, townhomes and duplexes to condominiums, high rises and mobile homes.  In terms of services offered, some facilities offer only police and fire protection while others provide recreational and social activities.

Assisted Living Facilities
These facilities, also known as congregate housing, are best suited to people who are basically independent.  Residents occupy their own apartments, often equipped with emergency signaling devices.  Residents share living room and dining room space as well as laundry facilities.  Available services may include dining programs, recreational activities, transportation, health services, housekeeping and security.

Residential Care Facilities
Also known as board and care homes or sheltered housing, these facilities are suitable for individuals who need help with personal care or medical issues.  Residences are staffed 24 hours a day and are usually state licensed.  To be eligible for this level of care, individuals must be able to dress and feed themselves and take themselves to the toilet.  They must be able to eat in a communal dining room, be fairly alert mentally, and need only moderate supervision and assistance with personal care.  Residents live in studio or one-bedroom apartments with private baths.  Sometimes, however, only shared rooms are offered.  Available services may include meals, laundry, housekeeping and social activities.

Continuing Care Communities
These communities, also known as multi-level care facilities, try to provide independent living as long as possible while assuring that nursing assistance will be available if and when it is needed.  In these communities, it is easier and more feasible for couples with differing levels of independence to remain together.  A wide array of services is offered, from personal conveniences like hair salons and barber shops, banks and libraries to recreational and educational programs, transportation and health care.  Entrance requirements for these communities usually specify a minimum age as well as minimum levels of health and finances.  Waiting lists for admission can often be quite long.

Nursing Homes
Nursing homes offer 24 hour supervision and nursing care and generally cater to individuals who are seriously ill or incapacitated.  Intermediate Care Facilities feature Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA’s) rather than nurses who assist residents with the routines of daily living like bathing, dressing and toileting.   They may also provide rehabilitation services. In Skilled Nursing Facilities, the staff consists of Registered Nurses (RN’s) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN’s).  Skilled nursing facilities are designed for those who need ongoing assistance such as medical care, pain management, feeding tubes, dialysis, wound care, physical therapy, and respiratory therapy, as well as help with daily living.  Some facilities combine intermediate and skilled levels of care under one roof.

Medicare/Medicaid
If your family member plans to pay for his or her care with Medicare or Medicaid, check to see whether the facility is government certified.  Choosing the right facility depends on an accurate assessment of your loved one’s level of necessary care.  His or her physician can help guide you by providing  valuable information.  Generally, a physician’s statement is required for admission to a nursing home.  Be sure to visit multiple facilities before deciding on the one most appropriate for  your loved one’s needs.

Elder law abuse in New York is a huge concern to us. Please contact the attorneys at Orlow Firm for information on choosing the right nursing home for your loved one.

Attorneys at Orlow Firm Helping You Choose the Right New York Nursing Home for Your Relatives and Loved Ones.

If you have any questions about what to look for in a nursing home or senior care facility, contact the Orlow firm.