Licensing and other assisted living regulations vary from state to state, contributing to the wide range of senior housing models considered assisted living. Most providers and their staff have special training as a result of either state requirements or company policy. Some states require special staff certification and training. Residences must comply with local building codes and fire safety regulations. ALFA believes the most successful regulations are consumer driven, balancing the safety concerns we all share with the consumers’ desires to retain their independence and freedom of choice.
Specifically, We Believe
All Americans needing long-term care services should be able to receive assistance with such services in the setting and manner of their choice for as long as it is appropriate. Assisted living services are provided in a variety of settings, and service options may differ by setting. ALFA members provide unique service options and communicate these options to prospective and current residents, so that there is understanding by both the resident/family and the provider as to the needs and preferences of the resident as well as the available services. Full mutual disclosure helps to ensure that residents and families are aware of all rights and options for care.
Assisted living providers constantly advance levels of quality professional service delivery. By consistently building upon what has been learned, ALFA members use promising practices to shape the provision of services for assisted living residents.
Assisted living should be accessible to people of all income levels. Additionally, ALFA members support the portability of consumer-directed long-term care services, with the ultimate goal of ensuring availability of services to those who choose to access such services.
State regulations, laws, and policies, should support resident-centered care. By shaping assisted living policy at the state level, ALFA helps to ensure that there is sufficient flexibility in place to allow for adaptation to regional needs, local knowledge, resident demographics and other existing rules and practices that affect assisted living.