Glossary of Terms

Assisted Living refers to licensed providers of medical, emotional, and practical support services, which are accessible on a 24/7 basis and provided within a specific setting. While they come in all shapes and sizes, Assisted Living facilities provide a greater measure of privacy, personalized care, and an emphasis on independence than many other senior care options.

Skilled Nursing provides 24-hour care for individuals who need services performed by, or under the supervision of, a Registered Nurse. Advanced medical needs that require skilled nursing can include services such as severe wound care, disease management, acute medical monitoring, and critical respiratory care.

Often used interchangeably with “Skilled Nursing Facility,” a nursing home refers to facilities that offer 24/7 nursing care, room and board, and activities for seniors who require significant medical support in addition to assistance with various activities of daily living. Nursing homes primarily focus on chronic or long-term illness management and services.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are senior living communities that provide various housing and support services to a wide range of residents. The continuum refers to the capability and capacity of the community to arrange and/or provide for various levels of care and support services to the residents of that specific community.

Any action carried out on a daily basis, usually related to self-care, is considered an Activity of Daily Living. This includes items such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, etc.