This glossary provides straightforward explanations of terms frequently encountered in the context of long-term care and senior living. If you need further detail on any term or additional terms, please let us know!
Basic personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the toilet. These activities are essential for daily self-care and independence. A means of describing the functional status of a person. ADLs do not include cognitive (thinking/processing) abilities – this is a separate function.
The concept of remaining in the same physical location when additional services are required or requested.
A program that offers supervision, social activities, and health services during the day for seniors who need assistance but live at home.
A residential option for seniors who need help with some ADLs but do not require the intensive medical and nursing care provided in a nursing home.
A detailed plan created by healthcare professionals outlining the medical, personal, and social care needs of an individual.
A community that offers multiple levels of care (independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care) in one location, allowing residents to age in place.
Non-medical care that helps individuals with ADLs. This type of care is often provided by aides or caregivers rather than medical professionals.
A group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.
A legal document that designates someone to make financial and/or healthcare decisions on behalf of another person if they become unable to do so.
A professional who assesses, plans, coordinates, and monitors services for older adults and their families.
Medical and non-medical services provided at home to support individuals with chronic conditions, disabilities, or recovering from illness or surgery.
A type of care focused on providing comfort and support to individuals with terminal illnesses, emphasizing pain management and emotional support rather than curative treatment.
Housing designed for seniors who are able to live independently but want access to services, amenities, and social activities.
A type of insurance designed to cover the costs of long-term care services, including home care, assisted living, and nursing home care.
A joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. It also offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare, including long-term care.
A federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, and for some younger people with disabilities. It does not typically cover long-term care.
A specialized type of long-term care designed to meet the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia.
A facility that provides 24-hour medical care and assistance with ADLs for individuals with serious health conditions or disabilities.
Temporary care provided to give a primary caregiver a break. This can be provided at home, in a healthcare facility, or in an adult day care center.
A residential community designed specifically for older adults, offering various levels of care, services, and social opportunities.
A healthcare facility that provides high-level medical care and rehabilitation services by trained healthcare professionals.
A federal program that provides retirement, disability, and survivors benefits to eligible Americans. It can also provide a source of income for older adults.
A legal arrangement that allows a person with disabilities to receive income without losing eligibility for the public assistance benefits they are entitled to.
The use of digital information and communication technologies to access healthcare services remotely and manage healthcare.
Benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to eligible veterans, which can include healthcare services, financial assistance, and long-term care.
Modifications or features in homes, facilities, and transportation to accommodate individuals who use wheelchairs, ensuring ease of movement and access.
