ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY PROFILE

Assisted Living Facility Profile

Number of Facilities -- The absence of a common definition for assisted living makes it difficult to pinpoint the number of residences in the United States. However, recent analyses by NCAL indicate that there are approximately 33,000 assisted living residences housing about 800,000 people.

Size -- The average assisted living facility has 30 beds and 23 residents. However, assisted living facility size varies greatly and facilities may be much smaller or larger.

Fees -- Costs for assisted living residences vary greatly and depend on the size of units, services provided and location. Assisted living facilities report charging an average monthly fee of $1,873; this typically includes rent and most additional fees. Roughly two thirds of all assisted living facilities charge between $1,001 and $2,500 in average monthly rent and fees. Another 15 percent charge more than $2,500, while 19 percent charge less than $1,000.

Rules -- The majority of residences (71 percent) allow the use of tobacco, while a somewhat smaller proportion (42 percent) allow the consumption of alcohol. Consistent with the varying policies found in apartment living, 43 percent of residences allowed residents to keep small pets, while 41 percent provided facility-owned pets for all residents to enjoy.

Visitors -- Most residences place no restrictions on visitors during the day, while 37 percent of facilities allow residents to have overnight guests.

Services -- Assisted living residences typically provide or coordinate:

24-hour supervision;
Three meals a day plus snacks in a group dining room; and
A range of services that promote resident quality of life and independence, including:

Personal care services (help with eating, bathing, dressing, toiletting, etc.);
Various health care services;
Social services;
Supervise persons with cognitive disabilities;
Social and religious activities;
Exercise and educational activities;
Arrangements for transportation;
Laundry and linen service; and
Housekeeping and maintenance.

All information comes from the National Center for Assisted Living’s (NCAL) 2000 Survey of Assisted Living Facilities or reflects NCAL’s philosophy. To order a copy of the findings from the complete survey, call 1-800-321-0343 and request the 2001 edition of Facts and Trends: The Assisted Living Sourcebook.