With nearly 20% of Florida residents over the age of 65 and with some counties as high as 35%, assisted living is a rapidly growing industry in Florida. Assisted living facilities, frequently called ALFs, are alternatives to nursing homes for residents who are at risk of living at home alone but do not need the intense 24-hour care provided by skilled nursing facilities. ALFs are also far less expensive than skilled nursing facilities or 24-hour in-home care.

Trained personnel assist residents with six activities of daily living (ADLs). These activities include ambulation, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and eating. In addition to ADL assistance, ALFs provide medication supervision, prepared meals and snacks, transportation to medical appointments, and activities designed to promote social and intellectual interaction. When Assisted Living becomes necessary, often many individuals are resistant to change and the necessity of leaving their homes. However most agree, once the transition has been made, they are able to maintain a quality of life they could not have attained by staying at home alone.

Assisted living facilities in Florida are required to be state licensed and range in size from six beds to over 100 beds. Many facilities obtain enhanced licenses such as Limited Nursing Services (LNS) and Extended Congregate Care (ECC) licenses. An LNS license allows a registered nurse to perform injections and Accu checks (i.e. diabetes management), dressing changes, administration of medications (opposed to supervision only), and supervision and care of catheter and colostomy bags. An ECC license encompasses a LNS license and further allows individuals to be dependent on assistance with four out of the six activities of daily living. Facilities that have LNS and ECC licenses provide an environment that allows residents to age in place with less likelihood of having to move again.

When searching for an appropriate assisted living facility, ask about the services that are provided, take a tour of the facility, talk with residents when possible, and inquire about the state licenses they have obtained. This will help insure a smooth transition into Assisted Care for you or your loved one.