Assisted living is designed for people who want to live in a community setting but need help with personal care such as dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, other daily activities or supervision, but do not require the intensive medical and nursing care provided by a nursing home. As a resident you would often live in your own apartment or room. You would receive services such as meals, assistance with personal care, help with medications, housekeeping, laundry, 24-hour security, onsite staff for emergencies and social programs.

Assisted living facilities may be part of a retirement community, nursing home, senior housing complex, or may stand alone. Regulations and licensing requirements for assisted living facilities vary by state and can be known by as many as 26 different names including: residential care, board and care, congregate care, and personal care.

The cost of assisted living depends on the kinds of services you need and the types of amenities the facility provides.