Assisted living facilities have undergone significant
changes over the past few decades, with distinct periods marked by shifts in
policies and regulations. The industry has experienced exponential growth,
but there has been a crisis of quality standards in recent years. Despite
these challenges, assisted living remains active, with four distinct models
catering to specific customer bases.
The first period from 1979 to 1985 saw a separation of homes for the aged
into nursing facilities and assisted living organizations. The latter aimed
to provide older adults with more privacy and access to specific necessities
via community spaces. The second period from 1986 to 1993 witnessed
significant changes in policies and regulations, leading to the emergence of
hybrid, hospitality, housing, and health care models. The third period
lasted for six years and saw heavy investments but failed to deliver
high-quality services. The fourth period, which continues to this day, is
characterized by a crisis of quality standards.
Assisted living facilities are distinct from long-term care services, with
accommodations that give residents private space while providing routine
services related to healthcare or other quality-of-life improvements.
Residents also enjoy the freedom to make their decisions, with no enforced
policies.
Today, there are four types of assisted living facilities. Hybrid facilities
divide their resources between personal living spaces and community areas,
providing healthcare services alongside other quality-of-life improvements.
Hospitality facilities aim to provide a multitude of services for the
satisfaction of their residents' needs in comfort and entertainment, rather
than healthcare. Housing facilities create low-cost real estates where older
people have a significant amount of autonomy and rarely provide 24-hour
support and extensive healthcare. Finally, healthcare model companies
provide services similar to nursing homes but prioritize the privacy and
self-sufficiency of their residents.
As the population ages, the demand for assisted living facilities will
continue to grow. The industry must address the crisis of quality standards
to ensure that older adults receive the care they need and deserve.
Understanding the four emerging models of assisted living is critical in
meeting the diverse needs of older adults. |